Molluscum Contagiosum

What can be done to prevent the infection?

The best way to prevent molluscum contagiosum is to avoid close contact with an infected person.

What are the long-term effects of the infection?

If left untreated, molluscum contagiosum can lead to bacterial skin infections. A person who has AIDS tends to develop extensive lesions over the face and neck, as well as the genital area. Molluscum contagiosum is difficult to get rid of in a person with AIDS because his or her immune system is compromised.

What are the risks to others?

The poxvirus that causes molluscum contagiosum is contagious. It is spread by direct skin contact, and is often sexually transmitted.