Monkeypox Renamed Mpox Amid Racism Concerns

MONDAY, Nov. 28, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Monkeypox still exists, but its name is being phased out over racism concerns.
For the next year, the terms monkeypox and the new name mpox will be used interchangeably before the virus is permanently renamed mpox, the World Health Organization announced Monday.
"Racist and stigmatizing language" arose after the virus spread to more than 100 countries, according to the WHO, which was asked to "to propose a way forward to change the name" by numerous countries and individuals.
The virus has been called monkeypox since 1958, when it was first observed in Denmark in research monkeys, even though they are not believed to be the disease's animal reservoir, the Associated Press reported.
WHO has previously renamed other diseases, though not after such a long interval. Those include SARS and COVID-19. It has not suggested renaming other diseases that were named after regions or countries, such as Japanese encephalitis, German measles, Marburg virus, and Middle Eastern Respiratory Syndrome, the AP noted.
While the disease is now largely under control in developed countries because of interventions and vaccinations, it may be impossible to eliminate in the United States, health officials have said. In Africa, the disease typically spreads through contact with infected squirrels and rodents, and almost no vaccines have been available, the AP reported.
Related Posts
Why High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy Bodes Ill for Future Health
TUESDAY, May 10, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- High blood pressure complications...
Outcomes of Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Compared by Surgeon Rank
THURSDAY, May 19, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Providing surgical fellows with...
¿Puede un exceso de tiempo frente a pantallas aumentar el riesgo de un niño de sufrir TOC?
JUEVES, 22 de diciembre de 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Los preadolescentes que...
Drug Therapy for AUD May Cut Risk for Alcohol-Related Liver Disease
MONDAY, May 23, 2022 (HealthDay News) -- Receipt of medical addiction therapy...