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Germy Kissing Is the Point

Swapping spit boosts immunity, say scientists

By Mary Papenfuss,  Newser Staff

Posted Nov 2, 2009 3:28 AM CST

(Newser) – A kiss apparently is not just a kiss. An unromantic team of scientists has determined that the point of kissing is to spread germs and increase lovers' immunity and health. The bug cytomegalovirus, which is dangerous in pregnancy, is passed from smooching men to give a woman time to build immunity against it, reports the Telegraph. "Female inoculation with a specific male's cytomegalovirus is most efficiently achieved through mouth-to-mouth contact and saliva exchange," said the lead researcher. Way to kill the mood.

What germs lurk on these lips?
What germs lurk on these lips?   (?david.nathan.cox)
Sebastian Brendel of Germany kisses his girlfriend during the Canoe Sprint European Championship in Europe earlier this year.
Sebastian Brendel of Germany kisses his girlfriend during the Canoe Sprint European Championship in Europe earlier this year.   (Getty Images)
Katy Perry swaps spit with Johnny Wujek.
Katy Perry swaps spit with Johnny Wujek.   (Getty Images)
Robert Downey Jr. smooches with his wife as they arrive for the Orange British Academy Film Awards in London early this year.
Robert Downey Jr. smooches with his wife as they arrive for the Orange British Academy Film Awards in London early this year.   (Getty Images)
Oops! That won't work. Esther Vergeer of the Netherlands kisses the championship trophy after winning a women's wheelchair final match in the Australian Open at Melbourne Park early this year.
Oops! That won't work. Esther Vergeer of the Netherlands kisses the championship trophy after winning a women's wheelchair final match in the Australian Open at Melbourne Park early this year.   (Getty Images)
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COMMENTS
Showing 3 of 11 comments
ErinORiordan
Nov 3, 2009 6:26 AM CST
I thought kissing was more of a social custom than an innate behavior. We evolved to kiss? That's actually kind of romantic.
yummines
Nov 3, 2009 4:53 AM CST
well, at least now we know that its helpful in more ways than one...
riffran
Nov 2, 2009 10:13 AM CST
I volunteer to innoculate Jessica Biel , (one can dream ya know)..lol

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