Day Four: Some Unexpected “Gifts” from Your Casual Valentine (Part One)

There are gifts that you would likely want to receive from your Valentine, but these are a couple gifts that you would not want to get from your Valentine…

Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a common, typically painless viral infection of the skin resulting in small, firm bumps that are often clustered together. It is spread by skin-to-skin contact or handling contaminated objects such as towels and clothing. Once acquired, molluscum can spread to surrounding skin by scratching or rubbing. Although the infection usually goes away after several months, some cases can last a few years. Usually no treatment is needed. However, there are multiple treatment options available, and treatment can prevent further spread.

Pubic Lice

Pubic lice, also called “crabs,” typically live on hair in the pubic region. They are spread by close physical contact – such as by sexual contact – or by coming in contact with contaminated clothing, bedding, or towels. Symptoms include itching in the genital area and visible lice eggs (nits) or crawling lice. The lice can also affect other hair-bearing areas such as armpits, eyelashes, eyebrows, or scalp (known as body lice or head lice depending on the body location affected). Safe and effective over-the-counter products are available to treat pubic lice (but should not be used for lice on the eyebrows or eyelashes).