Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: The statement is generally correct; most common warts are caused by human papillomavirus and can spread by contact.
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Many people have heard that warts are contagious, but they may not know whether this is scientifically accurate or just a myth. Warts are common skin growths that appear on the hands, feet and other areas. Understanding what causes warts and how they spread is an important part of basic health education and helps in preventing infection. This question asks you to judge whether the statement "Warts are contagious" is generally correct.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Most common skin warts in humans are caused by infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). These viruses infect the top layer of the skin and cause cells to grow more rapidly, forming a wart. HPV can spread from person to person by direct skin contact or indirectly via shared surfaces, particularly when the skin is broken or moist. Because a wart involves viral infection that can move from one host to another, it is accurate to describe warts as contagious. However, not every contact leads to infection, and individual immune responses vary, so some people are more prone to warts than others.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that a contagious condition is one that can be passed from one person to another through direct or indirect contact.
Step 2: Understand that common warts are usually caused by human papillomavirus infecting the skin.
Step 3: Recognise that HPV can be transmitted through contact with a wart or with surfaces that have been contaminated, especially in warm, moist environments such as locker rooms and swimming pool areas.
Step 4: Note that because a viral infection can spread between people, it fits the definition of a contagious condition.
Step 5: Compare this understanding with the options and choose the one that states the statement is generally correct and explains that warts are caused by HPV and can spread by contact.
Verification / Alternative check:
Health education materials and dermatology references describe common warts as viral skin infections. They advise measures such as not picking at warts, keeping them covered in certain settings and not sharing personal items like razors or towels, specifically because the virus can be spread. These precautions would not be necessary if warts were purely genetic or allergy based. This consistent advice confirms that warts are indeed considered contagious.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
The idea that warts are purely genetic and do not spread between people ignores the known role of human papillomavirus in causing them.
Saying that warts are contagious only in animals but not humans is incorrect because human to human spread of HPV is well documented.
Limiting contagion to only large and painful warts is wrong; even small or painless warts may carry virus and can spread.
Claiming that warts are due only to allergies is inconsistent with medical evidence, which identifies viral infection as the main cause.
Common Pitfalls:
Some people believe that any rough skin growth is a wart and contagious, which can lead to unnecessary fear. Others assume the opposite and think warts are harmless and cannot spread. To avoid both extremes, remember that most true warts are viral and potentially contagious, but the risk of spread depends on factors such as skin contact, hygiene and immune status. Good practices like not scratching warts and avoiding sharing personal items reduce the risk of transmission. For exam purposes, it is enough to remember that the statement "Warts are contagious" is generally correct because warts are caused by HPV.
Final Answer:
The correct interpretation is that The statement is generally correct; most common warts are caused by human papillomavirus and can spread by contact.
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