Question I think my roommate has Genital Warts, HPV. She had an abnormal pap due to this, no visible warts.
My question is, if she does have this, can I get it from living with her? Can it be spread on the toilet? Towels? Etc? What if she uses the restroom or touches herself and does not wash her hands? Could I get it from things she touches if I then touch myself? This may sound paranoid but I would really feel better knowing the answer.
Thanks for your time.
Answer HPV (human papilloma virus_ is commonly seen in young women. HPV is the causative agent that produces genital warts and some forms of cancer. However, just because HPV was found on the PAP smear does not mean that she has genital warts, unless you see actual warts. HPV is transmitted by sexual contact. It is not transmitted by fomites (toilet bowels, towels, hand contact). You will not develop warts from contact with her. She may never develop warts. Often, HPV disappears after age 30.
