There’s a cognitive bias known as “the curse of knowledge,” sometimes referred to as “the curse of expertise.” This bias occurs when you mistakenly presume that everyone possesses the same level of understanding about a particular subject as you do.
As a clinical microbiologist, I assumed it was common knowledge that kissing a newborn on the head is ill-advised. Yet, NHS surgeon Dr. Karan Raj recently highlighted this danger in a TikTok video, and judging by the flood of comments, it was a revelation for many.
Last year, a survey by the UK charity, The Lullaby Trust, revealed that 54% of new and expectant parents were unaware that allowing kisses could pose serious infection risks to newborns.
But why is kissing a newborn so perilous? The infant’s immune system is not fully developed, making them more susceptible to severe infections. During the initial three months, babies have fewer infection-fighting cells, rendering even mild adult infections potentially life-threatening for them.
Herpes, for instance, may only cause cold sores in adults, yet can make babies seriously ill and, if systemic, could prove fatal. Newborns are also vulnerable to bacterial infections such as Group B streptococci (GBS) or E. coli, which adults typically resist.
Showing Affection Safely
Parents shouldn’t hesitate to request visitors refrain from kissing or touching their newborn. It’s not overreacting; it’s safeguarding the child’s wellbeing. Visitors should practice hygiene, avoid facial contact, and reconsider their visit if unwell.
Remember, while kisses may be expressions of affection, they can inadvertently harm a baby. Prioritize health over sentiment and ensure the safety of these vulnerable little ones.
Primrose Freestone, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Microbiology, University of Leicester
This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Vocabulary List:
- Cognitive /ˈkɒɡ.nɪ.tɪv/ (adjective): Related to the mental processes of perception memory judgment and reasoning.
- Ill-advised /ˌɪl.ədˈvaɪzd/ (adjective): Not wise or sensible; likely to produce undesirable consequences.
- Susceptible /səˈsɛptɪbəl/ (adjective): Easily influenced or harmed by something.
- Perilous /ˈpɛrɪləs/ (adjective): Full of danger or risk.
- Inadvertently /ˌɪn.ədˈvɜː.tənt.li/ (adverb): Without intention; unintentional.
- Wellbeing /ˌwɛlˈbiː.ɪŋ/ (noun): The state of being comfortable healthy or happy.
How much do you know?
