How to Reduce the Risk of Spreading Warts

Warts are extremely contagious and can be passed from one person to another quite easily. Something as simple as touching an object that an infected person has touched may put you at risk for catching the HPV virus, which can in turn cause the appearance of warts. It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the transmittal of a virus. Viruses cannot be eliminated with antibiotics and require a strong immune system to overcome. You can reduce the chance of spreading the virus (to other parts of your own body or to other people) with certain simple measures taken in your daily activities.

Things You'll Need

• Soap and warm water
• Wart treatment kit
• New combs or brushes
• Shoes or sandals
• New razors

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Instructions

Reduce the Risk of Spreading Warts

• 1

  Use a new brush or comb and razor whenever you have warts. The HPV virus that causes warts can attach itself to a comb/brush or a razor and spread a wart to another part of the body or infect someone who comes into contact with these personal items.

• 2

  Eliminate the sharing of personal items with someone else. Nail files, nail clippers, towels and washcloths could be contaminated with the HPV virus.

• 3

  Avoid picking warts. Picking warts with your bare hands may cause the virus to spread to other parts of your body that you frequently touch.

• 4

  Wash your hands and feet frequently with soap and warm water. Be sure to dry thoroughly afterwards. Warts are more difficult to treat in an environment that has been left moist.

• 5

  Always wear shoes or sandals in public areas. Public swimming pools and locker rooms are havens for the growth of the virus that causes warts. Reduce the risk of spreading or catching the virus by wearing protective footwear at all times. This reduces the risk for plantar, or foot, warts.