Papillomavirus refers to a group of viruses known as human papillomavirus (HPV), which can infect the skin and mucous membranes. There are over 200 types of HPV, some of which can cause warts, while others are linked to various cancers, including cervical, anal, and throat cancers. HPV is primarily transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, often during sexual activity. Most HPV infections are harmless and resolve on their own without treatment. However, persistent infections with high-risk types can lead to serious health issues. Vaccines are available to protect against the most common cancer-causing strains of HPV, making vaccination an important preventive measure.