Molluscum: these benign but highly contagious pimples in children

Molluscum are raised white or pink bumps, 1-4mm in size, with a central dimple. Caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus, they spread through skin contact and are very common in young children. These bumps can multiply overnight and appear anywhere on the skin, including the genital area. Only active bumps are contagious—once they form a crust, they are no longer infectious.

What to Expect When Your Child Has Molluscum

Molluscum spreads easily through physical contact. An infected child can spread it to other parts of their own body by touching a lesion and then healthy skin. Since molluscum can cause itching, scratching makes it even easier to spread. The virus can also be transmitted through shared objects like sheets, towels, or game controllers. If you have multiple children, they can pass it to each other.

Molluscum can take time to disappear, ranging from a few weeks to a year.

What Should I Do If I Think My Child Has Molluscum?

Take your child to a pediatrician or doctor for confirmation. A prescription may not always be necessary, as the body’s immune system is the most effective way to fight the virus, which can take time. However, if the lesions are widespread or cause severe itching, a dermatologist should be consulted. In the meantime, limiting contact can help prevent spread.

To reduce transmission:

• Encourage frequent handwashing.
• Ensure your child uses their own towel.
• Regularly wash towels, bedding, and table linens.
• Clean frequently touched surfaces (doorknobs, tables, remotes).

Can We Still Hug and Kiss?

Adults can catch molluscum, but it's rare. Their immune systems typically fight off the virus before lesions appear. If you have a weakened immune system or health concerns, discuss precautions with a doctor.

Though molluscum may look alarming, it is generally harmless. And for a child, hugs are still important!

What about the classroom and extracurricular activities? Does he have to stay home alone?
 
The child must respect the same rules of hygiene as at home: in particular, regular hand-washing. It's difficult to prevent a child from touching another child, especially when they're playing together. But you can ask them to wash their hands, especially at the start of playtime or an activity, and try to touch only their friends' clothes, not their hands or arms.