No. There are more than 100 different strains of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Some of them are known to cause Genital Warts, which is an STI, whereas others are linked to skin warts on the feet, fingers etc, but are not STI.
HPV that causes genital warts are usually spread by direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual exposure (vaginal, anal and oral) or even heavy petting.
The transmission occurs when warts are present but is also possible even when there are no visible signs.
There are individuals who carry the virus for months and years but do not show signs. Hence, it is difficult to determine the source of the infection.
Gardasil, one of the vaccines, guards against HPV Types 6, 11, 16 and 18 only.
HPV Types 16 and 18 cause 70% of cervical cancer cases, and HPV Types 6 and 11 cause 90% of genital warts cases.
Gardasil may not fully protect everyone and does not prevent all types of cervical cancer and genital warts. Generally, there is no issue for anyone to take the vaccination.
If you are keen for the vaccination, you may wish to discuss with your attending doctor.
