Like others have said, he's 'freaking out' because his absolutely gorgeous wife with a bombshell body is sweaty and naked and asking him to wipe her off... while feverish and sick. Meaning that WIFE he's had sex with many times and very passionately is currently in a "look, don't touch" state. And he very, very, very much wanted to touch.
I'd say his self-restraint and dedication to her well-being deserve praise, but... frankly that's the least one partner can do for the other.