Nursery World - A Unique Child: Health - A guide to ... Molluscum contagiosum

Childcarers may have to deal with this infection, says Jody Blake, information manager at Wellchild.

- What is molluscum contagiosum?

It is a common skin infection which is caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). It can affect anyone of any age, but is more likely to be seen in children between the ages of two and five. Adults can also contract it, but it is more common in people who have a lowered immune system, such as those receiving chemotherapy treatment.

Most people who contract molluscum contagiosum will develop a lifelong immunity to it and will rarely get it again. It is not known how common the infection is, because most people do not seek advice from their doctor.

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