Is It Safe to Kiss My Partner When We're Both Sick?
At 18 years old, I’ve found myself in a situation where my girlfriend and I have both ended up with the same viral infection; she caught it first, and I subsequently fell ill as well. After a week apart, we're planning to reunite, but we are still feeling under the weather. I’m wondering if kissing her is advisable or if it could exacerbate our conditions. I’m currently on a course of antibiotics that my doctor prescribed, whereas she hasn’t consulted with a healthcare professional and is just resting at home. Should I avoid any physical affection during this time?
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 3:50:31 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's wonderful that you care about your girlfriend's well-being and your own while navigating this viral infection. Here’s what you should consider regarding kissing and physical affection while both of you are sick:
Key Points
- Viral Infections Spread Easily: Kissing can transmit infections easily, especially if both of you are currently symptomatic.
- Antibiotics and Conditions: Since you are on antibiotics, it's crucial to understand what they are treating. Antibiotics are effective against bacterial infections, not viral ones, but they can help if there's a secondary bacterial infection.
- Symptoms Monitoring: Both of you should monitor your symptoms closely.
Explanation
When it comes to viral infections, like the one you both have, the illness is often contagious, especially during the first week of symptoms, when viral loads in saliva are highest. This means kissing could potentially spread the infection between you or worsen your symptoms due to the increased exposure to the virus.
Next Steps
- Avoid Kissing: Until both of you have completely recovered and have been symptom-free for at least 24-48 hours, it's best to avoid kissing or other close contact to reduce the risk of spreading the virus or further complicating your conditions.
- Stay Hydrated and Rest: Focus on hydration and restful activities. This will help both of you recover faster.
- Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of how you both are feeling. If either of you develops more severe symptoms (high fever, difficulty breathing, etc.), it is advisable for you to seek medical attention.
After you both feel better and are symptom-free, it should be safe to resume physical affection. Take care of each other, and I hope you both recover quickly!
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