How to Prevent HPV Transmission at Home When a Family Member Has Warts

Q: How to Prevent HPV Transmission at Home When a Family Member Has Warts

Hello： <br>1. <br>If I wash with body wash before using the restroom or masturbating, is there still a risk of contact infection? - No.<br>2. <br>If I only wash my hands with water, is there a risk of transmission since other family members only wash their hands with water? - No.

If a family member has cauliflower ear, how can it be prevented?

Hello, I would like to ask how to prevent the spread of warts (condyloma) in a household where a family member is affected.
Although the chances of indirect contact are low, it is impossible to eliminate the risk completely.
If living with the patient, we frequently come into contact with items they have touched, such as car interiors, TV remotes, doorknobs, etc.

1.
If I wash with body wash before using the restroom or masturbating, is there still a risk of contact infection?
2.
If I only wash my hands with water, is there a risk of transmission since other family members also only wash with water?
3.
How long can the virus survive on objects that the patient has touched?
4.
If I touch items used by the patient and there are residual viruses, will my hands develop warts? Sometimes my hands may have minor, invisible cuts, and it is not feasible to wash my hands immediately after touching something.
5.
Is using 75% alcohol to disinfect items effective?
6.
If clothes are washed separately but in the same washing machine, is there a risk? Additionally, if my clothes touch hers while drying separately, is there a risk when I wear them afterward?
Thank you for your answers, doctor.

00, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/24

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello:
1.
If I wash with body wash before using the restroom or masturbating, is there still a risk of contact infection? - No.
2.
If I only wash my hands with water, is there a risk of transmission since other family members only wash their hands with water? - No.
3.
How long can the wart virus survive on objects that a patient has come into contact with? - It depends on the environment, but it won't last long.
4.
If I touch something that a patient has used, will I develop warts if there are residual viruses on my hands? Sometimes my hands may have tiny, invisible cuts, and I might not wash my hands immediately after touching something.
- No, the patient has been treated.
The viral load and the resistance of the contact person are key factors; normal handwashing should provide protection.
5.
Is using 75% alcohol to disinfect objects effective?
6.
Is there a risk if clothes are washed separately but in the same washing machine? Also, if I wash them separately but hang them out to dry together, is there a risk if my clothes touch hers, and then I wear them? - No.

Reply Date: 2021/03/24

More Info

When it comes to preventing HPV transmission at home, especially when a family member has visible warts (commonly referred to as "cauliflower warts" or genital warts), there are several important considerations to keep in mind. While the risk of transmission through indirect contact is relatively low, it is not zero. Here are some strategies and answers to your specific questions:
1. Hygiene Practices: Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after using the bathroom, as well as before touching your face or eating, is crucial. If you use body wash or soap to clean your hands before engaging in activities like masturbation, the risk of transmission is significantly reduced. However, if you only rinse with water, there may still be a risk, especially if there are any traces of the virus on your hands.

2. Handwashing with Water: While washing hands with just water is better than not washing at all, it is not as effective as using soap. Soap helps to break down oils and remove pathogens more effectively. Therefore, it is advisable to use soap and water whenever possible to minimize the risk of transmission.

3. Survival of the Virus: HPV can survive on surfaces for a limited time, but the exact duration can vary. Generally, the virus does not live long outside the human body, especially on dry surfaces. However, it can survive longer in moist environments, such as in bathrooms. Regular cleaning of shared surfaces with disinfectants can help reduce the risk.

4. Contact with Contaminated Objects: If you touch an object that has been in contact with the infected person's warts, there is a possibility of transferring the virus to your hands, especially if there are micro-abrasions or cuts. It is essential to wash your hands thoroughly after touching shared items, particularly if you are aware that they have been used by the infected person.

5. Use of Alcohol for Disinfection: Using 75% alcohol to disinfect surfaces and objects can be effective in killing many types of viruses, including HPV. Regularly disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, remote controls, and bathroom fixtures, can help reduce the risk of transmission.

6. Laundry Practices: Washing clothes separately is a good practice to minimize the risk of transmission. If you use the same washing machine, ensure that the clothes are washed in hot water and dried thoroughly. When drying clothes, avoid allowing them to touch each other. If your clothing comes into contact with the infected person's clothing after washing, the risk of transmission is low, but it is still advisable to wash your hands afterward.

In summary, while the risk of HPV transmission through indirect contact is low, it is not negligible. Practicing good hygiene, using disinfectants, and being mindful of shared items can significantly reduce the risk. If you have further concerns or if symptoms develop, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.

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