Dubai, UAE – Molluscum contagiosum is an infection caused by a poxvirus named molluscum contagiosum. The infection causes small, raised white, pink, or flesh-colored lesions with a dimple or pit in the center. They can appear anywhere on the body and can resolve without scarring within 6 to 12 months. For some people, it may take as long as 4 years.

While molluscum contagiosum is not considered a harmful infection, it is quite contagious. This infection is also more common among children, often appearing on their body and in or around folds of skin such as the groin, behind the knee, and armpits. As the lesions may become sore and itchy, children will find it hard to manage them. Molluscum contagiosum can also infect the same person in multiple locations and spread like wildfire without immediate treatment.

“The lesions caused by molluscum contagiosum can turn sore and itchy in some cases,” says Dr. Medhat Abu-Shaaban, renowned kids specialist and Medical Director of myPediaclinic in Dubai. “If the lesions become irritating, children and adolescents may find it very hard to manage it properly. As the lesions develop quickly and can occur in multiple locations on your child’s body, it’s best to get immediate treatment to stop it from spreading.”

Although the condition resolves on its own, Pediatricians in Dubai recommend treatments to younger patients, especially if the bumps are extremely bothersome, if they have other chronic skin conditions like eczema, or if they are found to have a weak immune system. There are many different ways to treat molluscum contagiosum. If diagnosed, your kid’s doctor may refer you to a dermatologist to get the best treatment plan that’s most appropriate for their age.

At the same time, parents are reminded to be mindful of this viral infection and take the necessary steps to prevent it from spreading. Here is what you can do-
Encourage your children to have good hygiene habits
Hand washing is particularly encouraged among children to remove germs they pick up from other people or surfaces
If your child did get molluscum lesions, remind them not to pick or scratch the skin as it can cause the virus to spread to other parts of the body as well as to others
If possible, keep the molluscum lesions cleaned and covered with clothing and bandage so that your little ones are not able to touch them frequently
When your child is alone and has no chance of coming in contact with others such as at bedtime, keep the lesions open to keep their skin healthy
During sports practices and gym class, remind your child not to share towels, clothing, or other personal items with others
Ideally, your child shouldn’t participate in contact sports unless all their lesions can be covered with clothing or bandages
It’s also best not to take your child swimming unless all their lesions can be covered with watertight bandages

If you have more questions about molluscum contagiosum, reach out to myPediaclinic, one of the best pediatric clinics in Dubai today.

About My Pedia Clinic:
myPediaclinic is a multi-specialist pediatric clinic in Dubai offering a wide range of healthcare services for young patients. The specialties include pediatrics, orthodontists, pediatric dentistry, and nutrition. As one of the most trusted and kid-friendly clinics in the country, the doctors and staff at myPediaclinic are focused on delivering quality treatment and consultation for the long-term health and well-being of their patients.