Genital Wart (Condyloma Acuminata):
Information for adults

Genital warts (condyloma acuminata) are caused by more than 30 types (strains) of human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus is spread by skin-to-skin contact during sexual activity and there does not need to be vaginal or anal penetration in order to become infected. Most people who become infected with HPV will not have symptoms and will clear the infection on their own. However, some of the virus types may cause cervical cancer.

Gardasil® (http://www.gardasil.com/) is a new vaccine that protects against 4 strains of HPV, which cause 70% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts. In 2006, the FDA licensed this vaccine for use in girls/women, ages 9–26.