Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection that is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV).

 
MCV can be spread through close, direct contact with someone who is infected, or by coming into contact with contaminated objects, such as towels and flannels. The infection is not serious but it can take a long time to heal and clear completely.

What does the skin infection look like?

Molluscum contagiosum appears as small, firm, raised spots on the skin, which usually form in little clusters. The spots (called mollusca) may be skin-coloured, pink, or pearly white, and some may have a tiny pus-like head in the centre.

Who gets molluscum contagiosum?

Molluscum contagiosum is a common infection. However, many people who have MCV do not seek medical advice, so the exact number of people affected is unknown. Approximately eight out of 10 reported cases of MCV affect children who are under 15 years of age, with young children aged between one and four years old being affected the most. This is because the virus is easily spread among young children who often come into close contact with each other at nursery or at school.

It is also thought that molluscum contagiosum may be more common among children who have eczema, although there is little medical evidence to support this.

Most people are naturally resistant to the molluscum contagiosum virus, so there is usually no need to keep children who have the infection away from school.