9 Diseases You Can Get Through Kissing

1. Cold Sores (Herpes):

Cold sores are often caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1). Kissing someone with an active cold sore can transmit the virus, leading to the development of painful sores on or around your mouth.

2. Mononucleosis (Mono):

Mono, caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), can be spread through saliva, making it a risk when kissing an infected person.

Symptoms may include extreme fatigue, fever, a sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes.

3. Strep Throat:

Streptococcus bacteria cause strep throat. Kissing someone with a streptococcal infection can transmit the bacteria, potentially resulting in a sore throat, fever, and other complications.

4. Cytomegalovirus (CMV):

CMV is a member of the herpes virus family and can be transmitted through close contact, including kissing.

Most healthy individuals may not experience symptoms, but CMV can cause illness in people with weakened immune systems or pregnant women.

5. Thrush (Oral Candidiasis):

Thrush is a fungal infection caused by Candida yeast. It can be transmitted through kissing, especially if one partner has an oral yeast infection. Symptoms may include white patches in the mouth, a sore throat, and difficulty swallowing.

6. Meningitis:

While relatively rare, viral and bacterial meningitis can be transmitted through close contact, including kissing. These infections can lead to severe inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

7. Cavities and Gum Disease:

Though not infectious diseases in the same way as the others, bacteria in the mouth that cause cavities and gum disease can be transmitted through kissing. Maintaining good oral hygiene can help reduce this risk.

8. Human papillomavirus (HPV):

HPV is a virus that can cause genital warts and a variety of cancers, including cervical cancer, anal cancer, and penile cancer. HPV is contagious, and it can be transmitted through kissing.

9. Syphilis:

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. Syphilis can cause a variety of symptoms, including a sore on the genitals, rash, and fever. Syphilis can also lead to serious health complications if it is not treated, including heart disease, blindness, and dementia. Syphilis is contagious, and it can be transmitted through kissing.

Note that not all kisses will transmit an infection. However, it is important to be aware of the risks involved in kissing, especially if you are with someone new or if you are kissing someone who is sick.