I'm all for hygeine but has it really come to this?

Strolling in the mall today, I spied a cheerful, chubby little baby in his stroller. Just as I began to smile and think, "isn't he cute?", I saw this conspicuous red octagon hanging near his head.

Before I had a chance to fully process these words of warning, I briefly thought the infant might be dangerous. Alas, it turns out that it's me who apparently wishes to do him or her harm.

I'm not a baby toucher but I am just going to come out and say that I think this stroller tag is over the top. I'm sure that the folks who created this tag, My Tiny Hands, had the best of intentions. I'm no medical expert but I can see where this warning would make sense for preemies or babies with compromised immune systems (or if you live in an area where people are completely incapable of keeping their hands to themselves).

However, I'm a little saddened that this passive aggressive piece of plastic trumps a kind smile, a thanks for admiring a new life and a diplomatic explanation of why a touch might not be such a good idea. Maybe I should create and market a yellow tag for strangers who do wash their hands that says, "I've washed my hands. Now let me touch your baby."