Can someone with molluscum contagiosum (a contagious skin infection) go to work while being contagious?

Molluscum Contagiosum and Workplace Attendance

Individuals with molluscum contagiosum can generally go to work while contagious, but should take precautions to prevent transmission by covering lesions and avoiding direct skin-to-skin contact with others. 1

Understanding Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a benign viral skin infection characterized by:

• Firm, rounded papules with central umbilication
• Pink or skin-colored appearance
• Self-limited disease typically resolving within 6-12 months (though can take up to 4 years) 1, 2

Transmission and Contagiousness

Molluscum contagiosum is transmitted through:

• Direct skin-to-skin contact with infected individuals
• Indirect contact with contaminated objects (fomites)
• Autoinoculation (spreading to other parts of one's own body) 2, 3

Workplace Attendance Guidelines

General Recommendations

• Covering visible lesions with clothing, bandages, or waterproof dressings is essential to minimize transmission risk 4
• Maintaining good personal hygiene, especially hand washing after touching lesions 4
• Avoiding sharing personal items such as towels, clothing, or equipment 4

Occupation-Specific Considerations

1. Healthcare Workers:

   • Can work with covered lesions
   • Should practice strict hand hygiene
   • Should avoid direct patient care if lesions cannot be completely covered 1

2. Food Service Workers:

   • Can work if lesions are not on hands/arms or can be completely covered
   • Must maintain strict hand hygiene practices 4

3. Athletes/Contact Sports Professionals:

   • More aggressive treatment approach is recommended
   • Should follow specific return-to-play guidelines from athletic organizations
   • May need to avoid participation in contact sports until lesions resolve or can be completely covered 4, 1

4. Childcare Workers:

   • Can work with covered lesions
   • Should avoid direct skin contact with children
   • Should practice strict hand hygiene 4

Prevention of Transmission in Workplace Settings

• Avoid touching or scratching lesions to prevent autoinoculation and transmission
• Use separate towels and personal items
• Clean and disinfect shared surfaces regularly
• Avoid direct skin contact with colleagues 4

Treatment Considerations for Working Individuals

If lesions are extensive or in visible areas that affect work:

• Cantharidin application or 10% potassium hydroxide are well-tolerated first-line treatments
• Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen is effective but may cause hyperpigmentation or scarring
• Treatment can reduce transmission risk and duration of contagiousness 1

Common Pitfalls and Caveats

• Misconception: Complete isolation is necessary - this is not true; covered lesions with proper hygiene measures are sufficient for most workplaces
• Risk of stigmatization: Educating colleagues about the benign nature of the condition can help reduce unnecessary fear
• Delayed treatment: While the condition is self-limiting, treatment may be beneficial to reduce transmission risk in workplace settings 2, 5
• Immunocompromised individuals: May require more aggressive treatment and monitoring as they can have more extensive disease 1

Special Considerations

• Lesions on eyelids or near eyes require prompt treatment to prevent complications like conjunctivitis 1
• Adults with extensive lesions should be evaluated for potential immunocompromised state 1
• In settings with high-risk individuals (e.g., healthcare facilities, childcare centers), more stringent precautions may be warranted 4