HPV infection transmitted from grandfather to young child via shared towel

A young boy, aged three to four, has developed condyloma acuminata (commonly known as genital warts) on his face, according to urologist Gu Fang-yu. Medical investigations revealed that the child's grandfather had contracted the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) after visiting a red-light district. The virus was likely transmitted to the child through the family's practice of sharing a single towel.

Dr. Gu noted that while HPV is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, the virus can infect any skin or mucous membrane, leading to warts on various parts of the body. The infection is difficult to detect early because the incubation period can last between one and eight months, and initial lesions are often small and painless.

Although the lesions can be treated, the doctor warned that HPV infections have a high risk of recurrence. It is advised that the child receive the HPV vaccine once he reaches the age of nine. Medical professionals emphasize that patients should not attempt to pick or squeeze the warts, as this can cause them to spread. To prevent infection, experts recommend the use of the 9-valent HPV vaccine and avoiding the sharing of personal items that come into contact with skin or mucous membranes.