A circulating TikTok video depicts a disturbing scenario in which a woman says she developed molluscum contagiosum, a viral skin ailment, purportedly from an Amazon wig she ordered. The allegation emphasises the potential health dangers connected with shared products, including those that appear harmless, such as hair accessories.
In the footage, the lady shares her experience of developing molluscum contagiosum, characterised by small, raised bumps on her face and body, after using the wig purchased from Amazon. She expresses shock and concern over contracting the infection from what she assumed was a harmless product. In reaction, other TikTokers said she could not get the virus from the wig purchased on Amazon, as the infection spreads through direct touch with an infected person.
DUBAWA, therefore, decided to examine the claim to clarify the nature of the disease, the mode of infection, and other vital related issues.
What is Molluscum Contagiosum?
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), which belongs to the poxvirus family. It typically comes as small, raised, flesh-coloured, or pearly bumps on the skin. These bumps are usually painless but can become itchy, inflamed or irritated.
Molluscum Contagiosum is highly contagious and spreads through direct skin-to-skin contact or by sharing contaminated items.
Mode of transmission
Molluscum contagiosum is transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact with an affected person. Contact with infected objects such as towels, sponges, toys, bedding, and clothes and swimming in pools or hot tubs can lead to the virus. In adults, it is mainly but not exclusively spread through sexual contact.
DUBAWA spoke to a dermatologist at the Kokofu Government Hospital in Kumasi, Dr Isaac Akwasi Nyarko, who stated that molluscum contagiosum commonly affects children but can also occur in adults, especially those with weakened immune systems due to underlying health conditions such as cancer and HIV.
While molluscum contagiosum is generally harmless and resolves independently over time, it can cause discomfort, itching, and potential scarring. In some cases, secondary infections may occur if the lesions are scratched or irritated.
For many individuals, especially children and adolescents, the visible presence of molluscum lesions can lead to embarrassment or anxiety about their appearance. This can impact self-esteem and quality of life, especially if the lesions persist or are in visible areas.
Effective prevention starts with simple but essential practices. To prevent molluscum contagiosum, it is necessary to avoid sharing personal items such as towels, clothing, and hair accessories. Thoroughly washing hands and maintaining good hygiene practices can also reduce the risk of transmission.
Encouraging children to avoid direct skin-to-skin contact and advising individuals with the condition to cover lesions with bandages or clothes can contain the virus to prevent further spread.
Treatment for molluscum contagiosum is typically determined by the patient’s age, the number of lesions, and location. Options include:
Observation: Molluscum lesions often heal on their own without therapy. This is frequently the recommended method for young children, as the illness is self-limiting.
Topical Treatment: This may include prescription lotions containing chemicals like imiquimod or retinoids, which can aid in the immunological response to the infection.
Cryotherapy: This is a typical treatment method to freeze the lesions with liquid nitrogen. This is usually done at a healthcare provider’s office.
Curettage: This entails scraping away the lesions with a sharp instrument. It is commonly used on larger or more difficult lesions.
Laser Therapy: The treatment can help eliminate molluscum lesions, especially when traditional methods have failed or are impracticable.
Antiviral medications: Oral antiviral drugs may be administered for severe or extensive cases of molluscum contagiosum, particularly among individuals with compromised immune systems.
It is imperative to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and treatment alternatives based on your specific situation.
Conclusion
The virus can thrive on various surfaces, including clothing and hair accessories, making transmission possible through items like wigs. This means wigs bought on Amazon can carry the virus if worn or handled by someone with molluscum contagiosum.
This report was produced under the DUBAWA Non-urban Journalists Mentorship project aimed at promoting a culture of truth and verification in non-urban newsrooms in Ghana with support from the US Embassy in Ghana.
