Verrucas are caused by the same common virus that causes warts. In fact, a verruca is simply a wart on the foot. Although the virus that causes a verruca is the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), which is linked to cervical and penile cancer, it’s important to realise that there are over 100 different types of HPV, and the type of HPV that causes verrucas is not the same as the type that leads to cervical and penile cancer. When the verruca virus infects skin, it causes excessive production of a protein called keratin (which is also a key component of hair and nails), resulting in a hard and rough skin texture.

It’s not fully understood why some people get verrucas and others don’t – though it is known that verrucas are highly contagious. Communal areas where people often put bare feet in contact with the floor (such as showers or changing rooms) are typical of places where you can easily pick up the virus. Someone with a verruca walking barefoot across a floor my deposit infected skin cells on the floor. Anyone who then walks barefoot on this surface – especially if they have small cuts or abrasions on the sole of their feet is at high risk of picking up the virus. It’s also important not to share shoes, socks or towels with somebody who has a verruca, as cross infection can happen this way.