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Molluscum Contagiosum is a skin disease caused by a virus. It generally affects girls than the boys. The people affected by Molluscum Contagiosum are on the rise. Molluscum contagiosum is spread through direct contact, either from one person to another or by sharing personal items, like clothes, towels, bed sheets, washing of clothes together. It can be spread through contact sports like wrestling. It can also spread by the person himself to another part of his body, if he scratches the rash and then another part of his body.
If the Molluscum Contagiosum is on the face, it can also spread by shaving. It is still to be predicted as to for how long an infected person can carry and spread the virus.
Molluscum Contagiosum can spread through:
- Swimming pools,
- Wrestling matches,
- Surgeons or nurses while performing a surgery while being infected in hand
- By the tattoos needle
If there are lesions in the genital area, it can be transmitted sexually. Lesions will develop within a period of two to three months after being infected. This is the reason for some doctors considering Molluscum Contagiosum a sexually transmitted disease among adults. It is recommend that people with genital Molluscum Contagiosum should get themselves checked for other sexually transmitted diseases as well. If children are found having genitals MC, they should be checked for sexual abuse, molestation or rape.
Molluscum Contagiosum Symptoms –
The rash begins to appear after a period of two to seven weeks.
- Initially the rash is smooth, white or flesh-colored, with cone-shaped papules. After some days, the center gets soft and is filled with fluid. It may turn red due to scratching.
- Lesions may appear on mucous membranes like the mouth area near the eyes. They may be found in a group in one or two area. In some case, they may be spread across the body.
- Generally, they are found on the face, eyelids, neck, underarms, and thighs., where the skin is warm and moist. Adults may them in the genital area.
- The rashes are not found on the palms or soles.
- There are no itching or other symptoms like fever, nausea, or weakness.
- People with weak immune systems develop it easily and frequently, particularly on the face, neck and trunk. People suffering from cancer, HIV or person taking steroid has a weak immune system.
- Sometimes the lesions become severe. This leads to irritation and inflammation. Often it leads to bacterial infection. Consult a doctor immediately. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
In case the eyes are affected, you need to consult the doctor. In most cases, medication may not be required at all. The lesions may appear and disappear on their own.
Prevention From Molluscum Contagiosum -
- Maintain a good personal hygiene. Avoid sharing personal items like brushes, combs, clothes and towels with one another.
- Avoid skin-to-skin or close physical contact with other people.
- Infection can be acquired from gym, swimming pools.
- Do not scratch the lesions.
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