Molluscum contagiosum

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Molluscum, microscopic appearance	Molluscum contagiosum - close-up	Molluscum contagiosum - close-up of the chest	Molluscum contagiosum on the face
Molluscum on the chest

Avoid direct contact with the skin lesions.

Total abstinence is the only foolproof way of avoiding molluscum virus and other STDs. You can also avoid STDs by having a monogamous sexual relationship with a partner known to be disease-free.

Male and female condoms cannot fully protect you, as the virus can be on areas not covered by the condom. Nonetheless, condoms should still be used every time the disease status of a sexual partner is unknown. They reduce your chances of getting or spreading STDs. Use them with spermicide with nonoxynol 9.

See safer sex practices.

Cohen J, Powderly WG. Infectious Diseases. 2nd ed. New York, NY: Elsevier; 2004:2053-2056.

Review Date: 10/31/2005
Reviewed By: Thomas A. Owens, M.D., Departments of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.