A patient undergoes cryotherapy to remove genital warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). At a follow‑up visit, the lesions are no longer visible. The patient asks whether they can still pass HPV to a sexual partner. Which statement best explains the situation?

No, because eliminating the visible warts removes the virus entirely.

Yes, because HPV can remain in epithelial cells even after the warts are treated.

No, because HPV transmission requires open bleeding lesions.

Yes, but only if the person develops cervical or anal cancer later.