The main way to prevent warts is to avoid contact with the human papillomavirus (HPV) that causes warts. If you are exposed to this virus, you may or may not develop warts, depending on how susceptible you are to the virus.

In 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Gardasil (HPV vaccine(What is a PDF document?)). It protects against four types of HPV, which together cause most cases of cervical cancer and genital warts. Gardasil is recommended for girls 11 to 12 years old. The immunization is also recommended for females 13 to 26 years old who did not receive it when they were younger. It can be given to girls as young as 9 years old. Studies show that the vaccine is safe and works well to help prevent cervical cancer and genital warts.⁴ For more information, see the topic Immunizations.

Tips on avoiding the human papillomavirus

• Avoid touching warts on yourself or others.
• Do not share razors, towels, socks, or shoes with another person. Someone with no visible warts can still be carrying the virus.
• Avoid walking barefoot on warm, moist surfaces where the wart virus may be alive. Wear shower shoes when using public showers, locker rooms, or pool areas.
• Keep your feet dry. If your feet sweat heavily, wear socks that absorb moisture or wick it away from the skin.
• Avoid irritating the soles of your feet. Warts grow more easily if your skin has been injured or broken in some way.

Tips on preventing warts from spreading

• Keep warts covered with a bandage or athletic tape.
• Do not bite your nails or cuticles, as this may spread warts from one finger to another.