Dr. Viktor Ivanovik, a Moldovan doctor with nearly 300,000 TikTok followers, has ignited a wide-ranging discussion with his recent viral video addressing the risks of kissing deceased loved ones during farewells. In the video, he issues a stark warning: “Never kiss the deceased!”

Ivanovik explains that approximately nine hours after death, the body begins to decompose, releasing bacteria that pose health risks. He cautions that kissing the deceased can lead to a significant loss of smell due to exposure to these bacteria.

The video has sparked diverse reactions. While some viewers are thankful for the health advice, saying they hadn’t considered the potential risks, others have responded emotionally, emphasizing personal connections. One commenter shared, “I kissed my father and would do it a million times over! I can lose taste and smell, he is my father!”

Ivanovik’s message highlights the need to balance cultural traditions with health concerns, illustrating the power of social media in raising awareness about important but often overlooked health issues.