Molluscum Contagiosum in Babies and Children
Content reviewed against published AAP, CDC, NIH guidelines
Last reviewed:
Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection caused by a poxvirus. It produces small, firm, dome-shaped bumps with a characteristic dimple (umbilication) in the center. While harmless and self-limiting, it can persist for months to years and spread easily between children.
Key takeaways
- Molluscum contagiosum is a common viral skin infection caused by a poxvirus.
- Duration: Individual bumps last 2-3 months. The overall infection typically resolves within 6-18 months, though some cases persist up to 2-4 years. Bumps often become inflamed (red and swollen) just before they resolve, which is a sign of immune clearance.
- Go to ER if: Signs of serious secondary skin infection with fever
- No vaccine currently available
Symptoms
How It Presents by Age
0-6 months
Uncommon in very young infants. If present, typically acquired from a caregiver or sibling through close contact.
Risk level: Low
6-12 months
Can begin appearing as baby becomes more mobile and has more skin-to-skin contact with others. Usually few lesions initially.
Risk level: Low
1-3 years
Increasingly common. Bumps often appear on the trunk, arms, and legs. May spread to multiple areas through self-inoculation. Children with eczema are particularly susceptible.
Risk level: Low
3-5 years
Peak prevalence age. Can have dozens of lesions. Often spreads through daycare and play contacts. Resolves spontaneously but may take 12-18 months.
Risk level: Low
Treatment
Watchful waiting
The AAP and most pediatric dermatologists recommend observation as first-line, since molluscum resolves on its own within 6-18 months without scarring.
Cantharidin (beetle juice)
Applied by a healthcare provider in-office. Causes a blister under the bump, destroying the virus. Generally painless at application but blisters within 24 hours.
Cryotherapy
Freezing individual bumps with liquid nitrogen. Can be painful and may require multiple sessions. More often used in older children.
Curettage
Scraping off bumps with a curette after applying topical anesthetic. Quick but may be distressing for young children.
Topical treatments
Tretinoin cream or imiquimod may be prescribed for widespread cases, though evidence is limited in young children.
Home Care
- Avoid picking, squeezing, or scratching the bumps
- Cover bumps with clothing or waterproof bandages during swimming
- Keep the skin moisturized to prevent itching
- Do not share towels, washcloths, or bath water
- Wash hands frequently
- Treat any surrounding eczema to prevent spread through scratching
- Reassure yourself that the condition is harmless and will resolve
When to Worry
Go to the ER if:
- Signs of serious secondary skin infection with fever
- Rapidly spreading redness and swelling around a molluscum bump
- Severe allergic reaction to a treatment applied by provider
Call your doctor if:
- Unsure if the bumps are molluscum or something else
- Bumps are in cosmetically sensitive areas (face)
- Signs of secondary bacterial infection (red streaks, pus, warmth)
- Molluscum dermatitis causing significant itching or discomfort
- Lesions near the eyes or on eyelid margins
- Child is immunocompromised
- Parent requests treatment for social or practical reasons
Keep an eye on:
- Bumps become very red, swollen, and painful (possible bacterial superinfection)
- Child has eczema and molluscum is spreading rapidly
- Bumps appear on the eyelids or around the eyes
- Child is immunocompromised and lesions are widespread or growing large
Prevention
- Avoid skin-to-skin contact with infected areas
- Do not share towels, washcloths, or clothing
- Cover bumps with clothing or bandages during contact activities
- Treat eczema to maintain skin barrier integrity
- Avoid shaving over molluscum bumps (in older children)
- Wash hands frequently
- Do not share bath water with infected siblings
Contagion & Incubation
Incubation
2-7 weeks, sometimes up to 6 months
Contagious for
Contagious as long as bumps are present on the skin. Once all lesions have resolved, the child is no longer contagious.
Duration
Individual bumps last 2-3 months. The overall infection typically resolves within 6-18 months, though some cases persist up to 2-4 years. Bumps often become inflamed (red and swollen) just before they resolve, which is a sign of immune clearance.
Frequently asked questions
How long does molluscum contagiosum last?
How does molluscum contagiosum spread?
When should I take my baby to the ER?
Can molluscum contagiosum be prevented?
When can my child return to daycare?
Sources
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources
Related Illnesses
Bottom line
Molluscum Contagiosum is a viral illness that typically resolves on its own. Seek emergency care if signs of serious secondary skin infection with fever.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.