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Causes of Warts

 

Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, more commonly known as HPV.  Although HPV may be sexually transmitted, there are many different types of HPV and not all of them are transmitted this way.  In order to become infected with a type of HPV that causes warts, direct or indirect contact with the virus is necessary, however the risk of contracting warts from a person is very low.

After initial exposure to a wart-causing virus, it may take as many as two to six months for the initial onset of warts to occur.  It is important to note that warts can spread to other areas on your own body through open wounds and nail biting.

 

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