Genital Warts are caused by which virus?

• A. Herpes simplex virus
• B. HPV
• C. HIV
• D. Hepatitis B virus

Answer: (B)

Genital warts come from infection with human papillomavirus, or HPV. HPV is a group of viruses transmitted mainly through sexual contact, and certain types specifically cause warts on the genital area—most commonly types 6 and 11. Some other HPV types (like 16 and 18) are more closely linked to cancer risk, which is why vaccination against common wart-causing and cancer-associated HPV types is available. The other viruses listed don’t produce genital warts: herpes simplex virus causes genital herpes with painful sores; HIV affects the immune system; hepatitis B targets the liver. Understanding this helps explain why vaccination and safe sex practices reduce the risk of genital warts and HPV-related complications.