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Disease information

Human papillomavirus

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a common group of viruses spread through intimate contact. Most infections clear without causing health problems. Some types cause genital warts, while persistent infection with other types can lead to cancers, including cervical cancer and some cancers of the throat, anus and genitals. Infection often remains unnoticed.

Prevention: Vaccine

Symptoms

  • Usually no symptoms
  • Some types cause bumps or warts around the genitals
  • Cancer-causing types may cause no early symptoms; screening can find cervical changes

Transmission

  • Intimate skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal or oral sex
  • Transmission from a person without visible signs or symptoms

Prevention

Vaccination helps prevent disease from important HPV types and works best before exposure. Follow local eligibility recommendations. Condoms lower the risk but cannot cover all skin that may carry HPV. Continue cervical screening according to the local programme even after vaccination.

Diagnosis and care

Ask a healthcare professional about unexplained genital growths or sores. Treatments can address warts or abnormal cells, although there is no treatment that directly removes the virus itself.

Source

  • About HPV

    Based on CDC information

    Source language: English

    Source reviewed: July 3, 2024

    Source accessed: May 17, 2026

  • CDC: About Genital HPV Infection

    Based on CDC information

    Source language: English

    Source reviewed: January 31, 2025

    Source accessed: October 8, 2026

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