Factors that increase the risk of infection
One factor that increases the risk of contracting the virus that causes warts is taking part in sporting activities, particularly in swimming pools or gyms. Crowded places where people are in close proximity to one another, with frequent contact between feet or hands, provide ideal conditions for the virus to spread and for infection to occur, as do warm and/or damp surfaces such as swimming pool floors or communal showers.
Furthermore, heavy strain on the hands or feet increases the risk of skin injury and therefore makes one more vulnerable to viral infection. Contact sports are also associated with a higher risk of warts, as they increase the likelihood of injuries and transmission through direct contact.
Finally, a weakened immunity – for example, in people with compromised immune systems – makes the body more vulnerable to infection and therefore more likely to develop warts.
Protecting yourself and others whilst taking part in sport
Whilst sporting activity increases the risk of warts, there are nevertheless steps that can be taken to limit the spread of infection. Whether or not you have warts, remember to wear suitable footwear in high-risk communal areas such as shared showers, and dry your feet and hands thoroughly to reduce the moisture that encourages the virus to spread.
If you have warts, do not share your towels, socks, nail files or pumice stones, and remember to treat and cover your warts when you cannot wear shoes in shared spaces (such as when you are swimming, for example).
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Don’t neglect your immune system
Children are the most likely to develop warts, partly because their immune systems are still developing. A weaker immune system can make you more susceptible to infection. As warts are caused by a viral infection, looking after your immune system through a healthy diet, plenty of rest and, if necessary, taking supplements could help the body fight off the infection.
To find out more about warts, watch our ‘Fact or Fiction’ video to see how we debunk some common myths: Fact or Fiction: Warts | URGO
