Molluscum Contagiosum
What is molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is a harmless viral infection of the skin. It is usually transmitted from one person to another by skin-to-skin contact, which may be sexual or nonsexual, or by contact with contaminated objects such as clothing or towels.
Infected individuals can also spread the infection to different areas of their own bodies.
Symptoms
Molluscum contagiosum appears as tiny pinpoints on the skin, one week to six months after being infected. These pinpoints grow into small pinkish-white bumps that are smooth and shiny. The bumps have a dip in the centre and a milky-white fluid inside. They can appear anywhere on the body.
Treatment
Lesions may be treated by applying a medication (trichloroacetic acid or podophyllin) or with liquid nitrogen.
If left untreated, the lesions will usually heal in six to 12 months. New lesions may form even after treatment since the infection can last from six months to two years.
Prevention
- Avoid skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.
- Do not share towels or other personal items.
- Avoid shaving the area to prevent further spread of the virus.
- Always use a latex condom when having oral, anal or vaginal sex. Although condoms do not cover the entire area of skin around the genitals, they are the best form of protection.
- Limit the number of sexual partners you have.
For more information, contact KFL&A Public Health's Sexual Health Information line.
Revised: 2014-09-24