When is molluscum contagious

As some bumps clear, new ones can appear. This cycle usually lasts about 6 to 18 months before the skin clears completely. Sometimes, clearing takes longer.

New bumps can continue to appear for 3 or 4 years, and there have been reports of molluscum contagiosum lasting 5 years. Treatment can help clear the bumps more quickly. You can find out who is likely to need treatment at: Molluscum contagiosum: Causes. Wanat KA, AR, et al. First sign The bumps appear on the skin between 2 and 8 weeks after you get the virus that causes this skin infection. Dome-shaped bumps As the bumps grow, they become dome-shaped and develop an indent in the center, which can look like someone pushed a pin into the middle.

Molluscum on eyelid When a bump develops on an eyelid, it often looks like a water blister, as shown here. Spreading bumps Scratching or picking at one or more bumps and then touching skin without the molluscum contagiosum can spread the virus to other areas of your skin. In time, new bumps appear. Related Links. Links with this icon indicate that you are leaving the CDC website.

Linking to a non-federal website does not constitute an endorsement by CDC or any of its employees of the sponsors or the information and products presented on the website. You will be subject to the destination website's privacy policy when you follow the link. CDC is not responsible for Section compliance accessibility on other federal or private website. Many, but not all, cases of molluscum in adults are caused by sexual contact. Conflicting reports make it unclear whether the disease may be spread by simple contact with seemingly intact lesions or if the breaking of a lesion and the subsequent transferring of core material is necessary to spread the virus.

The molluscum contagiosum virus remains in the top layer of skin epidermis and does not circulate throughout the body; therefore, it cannot spread through coughing or sneezing.

Since the virus lives only in the top layer of skin, once the lesions are gone the virus is gone and you cannot spread it to others. Typical molluscum bumps. Note the pearly appearance and the dimple in the center of the bumps. Cover the bumps with a watertight bandage before swimming or doing activities with close contact like wrestling or shared equipment like gymnastics.

Not share towels. Not shave over areas that have bumps. Not touch, scratch, or rub the bumps. How Is Molluscum Treated? Sometimes, doctors remove the bumps or help them go away more quickly. To do this, they can: Freeze the bumps off.

Scrape or cut the bumps off. Put a chemical on the bumps to make the body fight them away faster. Put medicine on the bumps or give medicine to swallow. What Else Should I Know? To avoid molluscum and other skin infections, follow these tips: Wash your hands well and often with soap and water. Do not share towels or clothing.

Do not share kickboards and other water toys.