molluscum contagiosum
by catherine alderstein·
exclusion period
no exclusion required
symptoms
- •small, firm, flesh-coloured or pearly bumps on the skin
- •bumps may have a dimple in the centre
- •usually painless
- •may appear in clusters on trunk, arms, legs, or face
when can your child return to childcare?
no exclusion is required. the child can attend childcare. lesions should be covered with clothing or a watertight dressing where possible for swimming or contact activities.
do siblings or contacts need to stay home?
contacts are not excluded
treatment notes for parents
molluscum usually resolves on its own over 6–18 months. treatment is generally not needed. see a GP if the bumps become inflamed or infected. avoid sharing towels and bath water.
view all exclusion periods
the complete illness-by-illness guide
this guide is for informational purposes only. exclusion periods are based on the NHMRC's Staying Healthy guidelines and were accurate at the time of writing. always consult your child's GP or childcare centre for specific advice. mini mode is not a medical service.