New research reveals misconceptions about common wart virus

Scientists estimate that one in four of us will experience at least one unsightly, highly contagious and sometimes painful wart or verruca at some point in our lives. Despite this, our understanding of the world of warts is limited, that’s according to a survey entitled the Wart Report, carried out on behalf of the Wartner range of treatments for all the family.

The Wart Report found that the majority of people are unsure about how warts are spread, who is suceptible to them and how they can be treated. Most worringly, 15% of respondants did not rule out rubbing the wart on a frog as a possible remedy for getting rid of warts.

Over 50% of repondants didn’t know that warts could be spread through both direct and indirect contact. Almost one in four people surveyed were unaware that warts were caused by a virus, with respondants falsely believeing that worry, stress and hormones were possible causes.

Over 18% didn’t know that warts can be found anywhere on the body, but instead claimed that warts were localised to areas such as hands, elbows and knees. One in four believed that children were the least likely group to contract warts or verrucas, when in fact the opposite is the case.

Warts and verrucas are benign skin growths caused by the Human Papilloma Virus. The virus causes rapid division in the skin cells, which results in small lumps or growths. Common warts (verruca vulgaris) can usually be recognised by their segmented cauliflower-like appearance.

Although everyone is exposed to the virus, children and teenagers are more likely to suffer from warts or verrucas as a consequence of not having built up sufficient levels of anti-bodies to fight the virus. Warts and verrucas are highly contagious and the virus thrives in moist conditions such as swimming pools and shower rooms.

Commenting on the research, family GP Dr Paul Heslin said: ‘Treating warts early when they are small can make the job much easier. Even though we know that most warts will be gone after a year naturally, the troublesome warts and veruccas are best treated early when they are small."

The Wartner range of specially designed treatments are clinically tested, easy to use, fast and effective. Wartner freezes warts and verrucas to the core in seconds using a form of cryotherapy or freezing, similar to the methods used by GPs.

Wartner is available in pharmacies nationwide. Prices start at €20.99. Always read the label. For more information about warts, verrucas and the Wartner range log on to www.wartner.eu.ie

Notes to editor:
Research for the Wart Report was conducted through rollercoaster.ie in May 2010 with a sample of 272 adults.