The emotional impact, often overlooked:
What if the main risk wasn’t physical, but emotional? For some people, direct contact with the deceased can leave a deep, even disturbing, psychological imprint. This gesture of farewell, though full of tenderness, can paradoxically awaken anxieties, amplify pain, or create memories that are difficult to process. In the turmoil of grief, it is essential to respect one’s own boundaries and avoid any action that could generate persistent distress.
The effect of indirect contagion during gatherings:
During funeral wakes, relatives often take turns standing near the deceased. If someone comes into close contact with the body, they can unintentionally transmit germs to others through hugs or handshakes. A simple gesture can then initiate a chain of transmission, especially in confined spaces.