What is it? - A common infection skin infection in infants (> = 1) and children below age 10. 👶🏽👧🏾👦🏿... Main symptom is occasional mild itch. It is not life threatening. What is the cause? - Molluscum Contagiosum Virus (MCV), a type of poxvirus 🦠 Where in the world 🌎? - Warm Climates most affected☀️🏝 Is it Contagious? - Yes in children. Through direct contact with the skin, the clothing or linens of the affected child, or spread it from one location on the body to another. - Children with Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis) are more prone to this infection! The affected child is can spread the infection as long as there are bumps!! 👈🏾 Does it ever affect Adults? - Yes but less commonly. Can be severe in persons with compromised or suppressed immune systems (e.g. HIV). Usually spread through intimate contact. In General: ❌ Do not squeeze pick at the bumps! That can spread the infection causing more bumps! DO NOT ATTEMPT TO SELF TREAT!! 🚫 Keep hands clean and avoid scratching! This can cause worsening or the addition of bacterial infection of the affected skin! 🚫 Do not share personal effects with others. ⭕️ For very few lesions, treatment may not be absolutely necessary and the skin will clear all on its own (6-18 months 👀 sometimes longer). However if there are multiple lesions or if spreading to other body sites, or you are unsure, if the child is likely to spread it to others in close proximity, has eczema or the lesions are painful and or itchy please see your doctor or dermatologist! ⭕️ In general the skin heals well without significant or visible scarring, or post inflammatory hyperpigmentation. 👩🏽‍⚕️**As the days have gotten even warmer, look out for an increase in viral conditions! Before & After 📸 3-4weeks apart ! #skin #skincare #viral #infections #contagious #dontselftreat #caribbean #derm