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Symptom Checker

Molluscum in Children

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that causes small, smooth bumps, often with a tiny dip in the center. The bumps can appear alone or in groups.

A poxvirus causes molluscum. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact, shared objects and scratching or touching existing bumps.

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AAP Guide to Molluscum in Children

The AAP guide below explains what molluscum looks like, how it spreads, and when treatment may be worth considering.

AAP Symptom CheckerMolluscum

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When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • The bumps become painful, red or infected-looking.
  • Molluscum is spreading rapidly or causing significant eczema.
  • The bumps are near the eyes or are causing your child significant distress.
  • Your child has a weakened immune system.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Your child has any life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on skin and rashes

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms