Warts are skin growths that are usually harmless. They look like thickened skin that is clearly different from the skin around them. They are usually round or oval shaped. Warts are caused by a virus (called the human papillomavirus) that enters the skin through scratches or other skin damage.
There are several types of warts and they can appear in different places on the body. Mostly, there are only 1 or 2 warts, but sometimes there can be a lot in one area.
How it spreads
Warts can spread to other people, usually from skin-to-skin contact with another person. Picking or scratching warts can mean the warts are spread to other parts of the infected person’s body.
Warts can also be spread by touching contaminated surfaces.
Exclusion period
Not excluded - people with warts can attend the service.
Actions for educators and other staff
Ensure staff and children have good hand hygiene.
Ensure staff use appropriate cleaning practices, as described in the Staying healthy guideline.
Actions for parents and carers
Try to stop your child picking or scratching the warts.
Make sure your child washes their hands thoroughly and often, especially if they touch the warts.
More information about warts
See healthdirect for more information on prevention, diagnosis and treatment of warts.
To find out if a child needs medical help, you can:
- use the health direct online symptom checker
- speak to a registered nurse by calling their 24-hour health advice hotline on 1800 022 222.
