Can Human Papillomavirus (HPV) be transmitted through coughing?

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Last updated: February 18, 2025 • View editorial policy

From the Guidelines

No, it is unlikely that someone can pass HPV by coughing.

HPV Transmission

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is primarily spread through skin-to-skin contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex 1.

  • The most consistent predictors of infection have been measures of sexual activity, most importantly the number of sex partners (lifetime and recent) 1.
  • Nonsexual routes of genital HPV transmission, such as transmission from a mother to a newborn baby, are uncommon but possible 1. While it is theoretically possible for HPV to be present in respiratory secretions, the risk of transmission through coughing or other respiratory droplets is considered to be extremely low. As a precaution, individuals with HPV should still practice good hygiene, such as washing their hands frequently and avoiding close contact with others when they are sick. However, there is no specific medication or treatment recommended to prevent HPV transmission through coughing.

From the Research

Transmission of Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

  • The primary route of HPV transmission is through skin-to-skin or skin-to-mucosa contact, with sexual transmission being the most documented 2, 3, 4.
  • Non-sexual transmission routes, such as vertical transmission from mother to child during childbirth, have also been suggested 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • There is no evidence to suggest that HPV can be transmitted through coughing, as the virus is not typically spread through respiratory droplets.
  • HPV infection can be detected on inanimate objects, such as clothing or environmental surfaces, but transmission is not known to occur by this route 3.

Modes of Transmission

  • Direct skin-to-skin contact, often during penetrative genital contact, is the most common mode of transmission 3, 4.
  • Non-penetrative sexual activities that involve skin-to-skin contact can also lead to HPV transmission 4.
  • Vertical transmission from mother to child during childbirth is possible, but relatively rare 2, 3, 4, 5.
  • Self-inoculation is described in studies as a potential HPV transmission route, as it was certified in female virgins, and in children with genital warts (low-risk HPV) without a personal history of sexual abuse 2.

Prevention and Vaccination

  • HPV vaccines, such as Gardasil and Cervarix, are highly effective in preventing infection with the most common high-risk HPV types 2, 4.
  • Safe sexual practices, such as consistent and correct condom use and limiting the number of sexual partners, can also reduce the risk of HPV transmission 4.
  • Routine hygiene measures are proven to be inefficient in preventing HPV transmission, as the studies which have evaluated samples of HPV on contaminated medical equipment (after standard disinfection) have found them to be still positive 2.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.