Molloscum

Molluscum contagiosum is a skin condition that is common in children.

It is caused by a virus that gives you pimple-like spots with a dimple in the middle. It can be spread by skin-to-skin contact, or when you bathe or share a towel with someone who has the infection.

Learn more about signs and symptoms of molloscum.

First Aid for Molloscum

Molloscum will usually go away on its own in 18 months. Some treatments can increase risk of scarring. If your child has unsightly lesions, has a weakened immune system or the spots are causing problems, consult a GP to explore treatment options.

Good personal hygiene is important to help prevent molloscum spreading. If your child has molloscum:

• Give your child showers instead of baths. The molloscum virus can spread to other parts of the body through the bath water.
• If your child does have a bath, don't share baths with other children and avoid bath toys.
• The virus can be spread when drying with a towel, so try to dry areas with the molloscum spots last.