Wart Virus

The wart virus is very contagious. The skin cells on the warts release thousands of viruses and touching the wart or skin cells on it releases the virus, which can then infect others. Similarly, 6-9 million Americans have toenail fungus. Protect your feet by keeping them clean and dry. Furthermore, a tiny flake of infected skin from a person with athlete’s foot can fall off whilst showering. It may then be trodden on by others who can then develop the infection. Once a small patch of infection develops it typically spreads along the skin.

Common warts

The most common strain and these warts occur all over the body except the feet and genitals. They are often seen in older children and adults. They are tall cylindrical protrusions of skin which if big enough are noticeable. Common warts cannot be spread unless through wounds and then the wart has to physically touch the wound.

Flat warts

These mostly appear on the face, neck, legs and knees as well as other areas. They usually affect the faces of men and the legs and armpits of young women. They are common in young children where they often appear on the face. They are as small as pinheads and can occur in their hundreds.

Digitate warts

Usually appear on the scalp or near the hair line. They are rough and finger shaped.

Perlungual warts

Commonly occur around the fingernails. They are also rough but irregular and elevated. They can extend under the nails causing pain and discomfort and can also occur in clusters.

Filiform warts

These are long and narrow and usually seen on the eyelids, face, neck or lips.