Mulloscum skin virus

It is not harmful and usually does not have any other symptoms. The virus is inside the bumps and is mildly contagious. These bumps usually clear over an extended period of time.

Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a virus called the poxvirus. It is most common in children and adolescents, although it can affect adults. The virus usually is spread through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. People with weakened immune systems, young children, and people living in warm, humid climates are less resistant to molluscum contagiosum.

Its bumps: Start as very small spots about the size of a pinhead. Grow over a few weeks. They can be as large as a pea or pencil eraser. Are soft and smooth and may have a small dent in the center. Can get infected with bacteria if kids scratch or pick at them.

Can appear alone or in groups, or rows. Most people get between 1 and 20 bumps. Can show up almost anywhere on the skin except for the palms and soles.

In kids, they're most often on the trunk, arms, and face. What Causes Molluscum? Who Gets Molluscum? Molluscum most often happens in healthy kids between 1 and 12 years old. But it also happens in: athletes who have close contact, such as wrestlers, or athletes who share equipment, such as gymnasts people with health problems treated with long-term steroid medicine use How Is Molluscum Diagnosed? Can Molluscum Be Prevented? Section Navigation. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate.

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