Kissing grandchildren?

I too, have heard about the herpes virus being passed onto babies and they have become gravely ill or died.

It is sad, but it happens. So precautions are probably justified.

At least you can show your grandchild affection in other ways.

Yes, a bit extreme. And this is how allergic children are 'formed'- but it is their rule, and as you have already accepted, you have to follow them. I'd find it very sad too.

I can understand their fears. A few years ago, I read about a new born baby, who contracted herpes and died. It was thought that someone with herpes had kissed the baby.

I would make me very sad, not being allowed to kiss a grandchild, but you have to abide by their rules, it's their baby.
Have you considered mum may have a touch of post natal depression, which may be causing your DIL's anxiety?
Are you allowed to cuddle the baby?

I hope you enjoy your visit, regrdless of this.

At least you're allowed to hold the baby, so not being allowed to kiss shouldn't matter - except it obviously does to you. I have 7 grandchildren, youngest one 6 months. It doesn't really occur to me to kiss her - it's more fun smiling at her and making her laugh. But I'm not a "kissy" person.

To me it is a bit extreme! But as you know, you'll have to go along with it.

Thanks, Katie, yes we are only talking about a quick peck of course, and no question, we will go along with their rules!
I was just interested what this group of wise grandparents think about it - if it's "normal" or a bit extreme?

It’s their normal so do it.

Yes, they truly are in utter shock, and of course we wash our hands before touching the baby. But grandparents not being allowed to kiss the baby (at nearly 5 months) seems odd to me.

A quick peck should be no problem, in fact with older children you are more likely to pick up something nasty from them.
However if the parents are frantic about it just go along with their wishes, poor kids.

I had a friend years ago, who after having their first baby was very anxious. There was a notice on the wall of their loo which read : Please wash your hands. I think you just have to accept their rules and bite your lip. Even forty years on, I can still remember the utter shock after having our first baby.