Can boiling water at 100°C kill the HPV virus?

Under normal circumstances, boiling water at 100°C can kill HPV viruses attached to the surface of objects, but it cannot eliminate HPV viruses that have already infected the body. The actual effectiveness depends on the environment in which the virus is located. If in doubt, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional in advance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

For HPV viruses attached to surfaces of clothing, towels, basins, and other objects, soaking or boiling in 100°C water for a sufficient duration (typically 10–15 minutes) can destroy the virus's protein structure and nucleic acids, rendering it non-infectious. This method is suitable for disinfecting personal hygiene items in daily life and effectively interrupts indirect transmission routes, reducing the risk of cross-infection.

However, 100°C boiling water is ineffective against HPV viruses that have already infected the human body. The virus resides within skin and mucosal cells, where boiling water cannot reach. Moreover, such high temperatures would cause severe damage to human tissues. Therefore, this method cannot be used to treat internal infections. Elimination of HPV from within the body relies on the individual’s immune system or standardized medical treatment under a doctor’s guidance; it cannot be resolved by boiling water disinfection.

When using boiling water to disinfect HPV-contaminated items, ensure that the items are heat-resistant and fully submerged in boiling water for an adequate duration. If infected with HPV internally, seek timely medical care to develop an appropriate treatment plan, while also properly disinfecting personal items to prevent spreading the virus to others.