Are Warts Contagious?
Warts are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV).
Unfortunately, the nature of the virus is contagious, which means that you can ‘catch’ warts.
- Warts can be caught from from touching a wart on someone else’s body
- They can also be caught through contact with objects which have been in contact with warts, e.g. towels
- Once caught, the nature of the virus is that they can spread to new sites on the same patient
- Warts are more likely to develop on broken skin, as the virus can enter through scratches or cuts
How to Avoid Catching or Spreading Warts
Good personal hygiene is vital to avoid catching or spreading warts.
- Wash your hands regularly
- Don’t share towels
- If you already have warts, change the towel regularly to avoid them spreading
- Be especially careful if shaving in an area with warts and never share a razor
- Beware of any skin damage e.g. hangnails, areas nicked by shaving, scratches, cuts
- Moisturise the skin regularly to avoid cracking/dryness
Treating Warts
Some warts will disappear on their own after some time, but this can take months or even years.
For stubborn or large warts, treatment is generally the fastest route to clear them up and prevent them from spreading.
Professional Wart Removal
For stubborn warts, professional wart removal treatment is recommended, as more aggressive methods can be used than DIY/at home treatments.
Treatment using freezing, laser or surgical techniques is available at Skin Surgery Laser Clinic who have a selection of locations conveniently based in London and Bristol. All procedures are carried out by highly trained and experienced doctors and surgeons.
For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.
