What causes molluscum contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a germ called a pox virus. It is contagious (kon-TAY-jus), which means it can be easily spread to others. This can happen if another person touches the infected area of your skin. It can also be spread on items you have used, such as clothes or washcloths. You can spread molluscum contagiosum from one place to another on your own body. It can spread when you scratch it, or if you touch the infected area and then touch somewhere else. Children may pass it to each other through saliva (spit) or from swimming pools. Adults may get the virus from having sex with infected persons. Children with atopic dermatitis (another skin condition) are more likely to get molluscum contagiosum. This disease is also more common among people who have trouble fighting infections, such as those with AIDS or other immune system problems.
