The father had some genital warts but was hesitant to seek medical attention, often resorting to over-the-counter creams. He and his son shared towels, bathed together, and he handled his son's hygiene.

For a week, the boy experienced itching and discomfort during urination, with small bumps appearing around his anus. Doctors diagnosed him with genital warts, prescribing laser treatment, topical medication, and regular check-ups. They emphasized the importance of separate personal hygiene practices. The father was also urged to seek treatment to prevent further transmission.

Children can contract genital warts from infected parents through shared baths or personal items. Illustrative photo: Vecteezy

A 30-year-old mother in Ho Chi Minh City is undergoing treatment for genital warts, along with her 7-year-old daughter, at a dermatology clinic. She admitted, "I never thought everyday habits like sharing baths and sponges could transmit the disease." She is receiving electrocautery and topical medication, while her daughter, to minimize psychological impact and due to less severe lesions, is only using topical medication.

According to Dr. Bui Thanh Phong, Medical Manager of VNVC Vaccination System, HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infections and genital warts in children who have not engaged in sexual activity are common. Studies indicate that the virus can spread through shared personal items like towels, underwear, and toilet paper. The virus can also transmit during close contact such as holding, bathing, or cleaning a child's genital area, especially if the caregiver has genital warts and doesn't practice proper hygiene.

While less common, HPV can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth. "Families shouldn't assume that HPV only affects adults or is solely transmitted through sexual contact," Dr. Phong stated.

Children's weaker immune systems can lead to rapid disease progression, severe symptoms, and bacterial superinfections. Without proper treatment, the disease can recur, and some high-risk strains may lead to cancer or affect future fertility.

Children receiving HPV vaccinations at the VNVC Vaccination System. Photo: Hoang Duong

Dr. Phong explained that there's no specific cure for genital warts. Current treatments focus on managing lesions, reducing symptoms, and limiting complications. Proactive prevention includes HPV vaccination for eligible adults and children, along with other preventative measures.

Two HPV vaccines are available in Vietnam. Gardasil protects against 4 types (6, 11, 16, 18) and is recommended for females aged 9-26. Girls aged 9 to under 14 need two doses, 6-12 months apart. Those aged 14-26 require three doses. Gardasil 9, a newer vaccine, protects against 9 types (6, 11, 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58) and is for both males and females aged 9-45, with over 90% efficacy. The schedule for those under 15 is two doses, 6-12 months apart, while those aged 15-45 require three doses within 6 months.

The vaccines are safe and effective for the recommended age groups and do not cause early menopause, delayed menstruation, or infertility. Parents shouldn't worry about the vaccines affecting their children's reproductive health.

Families should teach children to wash their hands frequently and avoid touching their faces with unwashed hands. Children should also avoid sharing personal items like towels, clothes, and underwear to reduce HPV transmission risks. Adults should not bathe with children and should wash their hands thoroughly before handling children's hygiene.

Parents should avoid unproven genital warts remedies such as applying castor oil, using band-aids, or taking non-prescribed medications, as these can worsen infections.

Binh Nguyen