Common Questions About Warts: Infection, Transmission, and Prevention

Regarding warts?

I would like to ask the doctor some personal questions:
1.
If the fingertip has come into contact with molluscum contagiosum and has been observed for six months without any symptoms, can it be considered as non-infection?
2.
Can the virus exist in the fingertip without any symptoms?
3.
Does applying a single layer of breathable tape over the lesion provide sufficient protection against transmission, or is a double layer necessary?
4.
Can waterproof adhesive bandages also prevent infection?
5.
Can items like towels be rinsed with water to wash away the virus?
6.
How long can the virus survive on surfaces (such as towels or pens)?
7.
Do asymptomatic molluscum contagiosum lesions have the potential to be contagious?
8.
If the hand comes into contact with the lesion, can rinsing it with water wash away the virus?

WU, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/07/07

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
Usually.

2.
Not necessarily.

3.
Breathable tape cannot do it.

4.
It cannot be done.

5.
It can be done.

6.
About 24 hours.

7.
If warts appear, it is not asymptomatic.

8.
Proper handwashing is indeed necessary.

Reply Date: 2022/07/07

More Info

Warts are benign growths on the skin caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. They can appear anywhere on the body, but are most commonly found on the hands and feet. Understanding the transmission, infection, and prevention of warts is crucial for managing concerns about their spread and impact on health.

1. Contact with Molluscum Contagiosum: If you have touched a lesion of molluscum contagiosum and have observed no symptoms for six months, it is a good sign, but it does not definitively mean you are free of infection. Molluscum contagiosum is caused by a different virus than warts, but both can be transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact. The absence of visible symptoms does not guarantee that the virus is not present; it may remain dormant.

2. Asymptomatic Virus Presence: Viruses like HPV can remain in the body without causing symptoms. This means that even if you do not have visible warts, the virus could still be present in your skin cells. The immune system often keeps the virus in check, preventing it from causing warts.

3. Using Adhesive Bandages: Covering a wart with a breathable adhesive bandage can help protect it from irritation and potential secondary infections, but it is not a foolproof method for preventing transmission. One layer may be sufficient, but two layers may provide additional protection. However, it is essential to keep the area clean and dry.

4. Waterproof Bandages: Waterproof bandages can help keep a wound dry and may provide a barrier against some pathogens. However, they are not guaranteed to block all viruses, including HPV. Proper hygiene and care are crucial in preventing infection.

5. Cleaning Towels and Objects: Washing towels and similar items with clean water may help reduce the presence of viruses, but it is not guaranteed to eliminate them completely. Using soap and hot water is more effective in killing viruses and bacteria. Additionally, items that have been in contact with warts should be washed separately to prevent cross-contamination.

6. Survival of the Virus on Surfaces: HPV can survive on surfaces for varying lengths of time, depending on the type of surface and environmental conditions. Generally, the virus can live for several hours to days on surfaces like towels or pens. Regular cleaning and disinfection of shared items can help reduce the risk of transmission.

7. Asymptomatic Transmission: Warts can be contagious even when there are no visible symptoms. This means that someone with HPV can potentially spread the virus to others through direct contact, even if they do not have warts present at the time.

8. Washing Hands After Contact: If you touch a wart and then wash your hands with soap and water, you can significantly reduce the risk of spreading the virus. However, simply rinsing with water may not be sufficient to remove all viral particles. It is essential to use soap and thoroughly wash your hands to ensure effective cleaning.

In summary, while the absence of visible symptoms is reassuring, it does not guarantee that the virus is not present. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as regular handwashing, avoiding direct contact with warts, and cleaning shared items, can help reduce the risk of transmission. If you have concerns about warts or potential infections, consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options is always a good idea.

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