This is a more than awkward situation. You don't want to run the risk of offending your aunt and chances are she isn't considering the risks of spreading the virus. Even more, you don't want your child to have the herpes simplex virus.

If you're aunt is someone who wouldn't overreact, approach the subject head on. Explain to her that you know she loves your child and would in no way harm them on purpose, but that by kissing him or her she could be spreading her cold sores. Go on to explain that the majority of people who have this virus contracted it completely innocently as a child. Simply ask her to show her affection in another manner.

If you feel someone else could speak to her without causing an issue, ask them to do it. Since she's your aunt, maybe one of your parents could speak to her.

If this isn't a way you feel you can approach the situation, consider your child's age. Is he or she super young? If so, make it a known fact that no one is to kiss your child on the mouth because you are terrified of germs being spread to your little one. Taking into account how much Swine Flu and other illnesses that have been passed about recently, that shouldn't be an issue nor a surprise to anyone.

If your child is young enough that you can completely speak for them, make something up! Tell the aunt that he or she hates being kissed on the mouth and that every time it happens they throw tantrums. She'll avoid planting a kiss on your little darling at all costs!

If your child is a bit older, explain the situation to them so that they can avoid being kissed by their well-meaning virus totting auntie.

If nothing else works, bottom line is you have to protect your child. Even if it takes becoming very direct and bold, she should not be kissing him or her on the mouth. As harsh as it might sound, sometimes we just have to battle for our kids. It's our job!