Molluscum contagiosum is a common skin infection. Understanding how this virus survives on surfaces, particularly clothing, helps clarify potential transmission routes. This article explores the nature of molluscum contagiosum and its viability on clothing.
What is Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum (MCV) is a benign skin infection caused by a poxvirus. It appears as small, firm, flesh-colored bumps, often with a central dimple. These lesions are usually 2 to 5 millimeters in diameter and may have a pearly appearance.
The bumps can emerge on various body parts, including the trunk, arms, legs, face, and groin. While anyone can be affected, it is most common in young children, individuals with weakened immune systems, and sexually active adults. The infection generally resolves on its own, though this can take several months to a few years.
Transmission Pathways
Molluscum contagiosum primarily spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact with an infected person or their lesions. Activities involving close physical interaction, such as contact sports or intimate contact, can facilitate this spread.
Indirect transmission is also possible through inanimate objects. Items like shared towels, clothing, bedding, and toys can harbor the virus. While indirect transmission can occur, it is less frequent than direct skin-to-skin contact.
Viability on Surfaces
The molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) can survive on inanimate surfaces, including clothing, for a period. Specific research detailing MCV’s exact survival duration on fabrics is limited. However, viruses generally have shorter viability on porous surfaces like textiles compared to non-porous materials.
Environmental conditions like temperature and humidity influence how long a virus remains infectious; cooler temperatures can sometimes prolong viral survival. Porous materials like fabric tend to absorb moisture, which can lead to faster inactivation. The amount of virus present also plays a role. While precise data for MCV on clothing is not extensively documented, the virus can persist for a short period, potentially hours to a few days, under favorable conditions.
Minimizing Spread from Clothing
To minimize the spread of molluscum contagiosum through clothing, practical hygiene measures are beneficial. Washing clothing, towels, and bedding that have come into contact with the infection in hot water and drying them on high heat can help inactivate the virus. This standard laundry practice is usually sufficient for decontamination.
Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, washcloths, and clothing to reduce the risk of indirect transmission. Good hand hygiene, particularly after touching lesions or contaminated items, is important for preventing self-spread and transmission to others. Covering the lesions with clothing or bandages can also help prevent the virus from transferring to surfaces or other individuals.