<pic credit: Channel News Asia>
A netizen is reeling from the shock of having contracted a virus - after walking around barefoot. The virus - human papillomavirus (HPV) - caused warts to form on the sole of her feet.
The virus - human papillomavirus (HPV) - caused warts to form on the sole of her feet.
HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD). There are more than 40 types of HPV that can infect the genital areas of males and females. These HPV types can also infect the mouth, throat, hands and even feet.
HPV can cause serious health problems, including genital warts and certain cancers. There is no certain way to tell who will develop health problems from HPV and who will not. In most cases HPV goes away by itself before it causes any health problems, and most people who become infected with HPV do not even know they have it.
Doctors say one of the symptoms of HPV is the forming of a hard lump.
If the lumps form on the soles of the feet, the person may feel pain when pressure is exerted on them.
"Because this virus needs direct contact (for transmission), I would advise that you don't share shoes and socks (with people)infected with the virus," advised Dr Lynn Chiam, consultant dermatologist at Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital. [Credit: Channel News Asia]
"It can also be easily spread in communal areas and communal showers, and also in the office. I know a lot of people like to kick off their shoes and walk on the carpet. I wouldn't advise you to do that."
Is there a test for HPV?
HPV tests are available to help screen women aged 30 years and older for cervical cancer. These HPV tests are not recommended to screen men, adolescents, or women under the age of 30 years. There is no general HPV test for men or women to check one's overall "HPV status." Also, there is not an approved HPV test to find HPV in the mouth or throat.
Is there a treatment for HPV or health problems caused by HPV?
There is no treatment for the virus itself, but there are treatments for the health problems that HPV can cause:
Genital warts can be removed with treatments applied by the provider or the person himself/herself. No one treatment is better than another. Some people choose not to treat warts, but to see if they disappear on their own. If left untreated, genital warts may go away, stay the same, or grow in size or number.
Cervical cancer is most treatable when it is diagnosed and treated early. Women who get routine Pap tests and follow up as needed can identify problems before cancer develops. Prevention is always better than treatment.
Do share this piece of information with your fellow Singaporeans. The best way we can prevent the spread of this virus is to have more awareness about how you could contract and prevent them.