Monkeypox Is Now Called Mpox – Why WHO Changed the Name
Introduction
The World Health Organization (WHO) officially announced that Monkeypox will now be called Mpox. The name change was introduced to reduce stigma, discrimination, and confusion linked with the older disease name.
The updated terminology is now being adopted globally by healthcare organizations, governments, and medical professionals. WHO stated that both names would be used temporarily during a transition period before “Mpox” became the preferred term.
What Is Mpox?
Mpox is a viral infectious disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus family.
The disease can spread through:
- Close physical contact
- Skin lesions or rash
- Respiratory droplets
- Contaminated clothing or bedding
Common symptoms may include:
- Fever
- Rash or skin lesions
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Headache
- Body pain and weakness
WHO continues to classify Mpox as an important public health concern in several regions.
Why Did WHO Change the Name?
1. To Reduce Stigma and Discrimination
WHO reported concerns that the name “Monkeypox” was being used in racist and stigmatizing ways during the global outbreak.
Some communities and regions faced discrimination because of the disease name and misinformation spreading online. WHO decided that changing the name would help create more neutral and non-discriminatory public communication.
2. To Follow Modern Disease Naming Guidelines
WHO has introduced global best practices for naming diseases in ways that avoid:
- Geographic references
- Animal names
- Cultural stigma
- Community discrimination
The shift from Monkeypox to Mpox aligns with these updated international health naming guidelines.
3. To Improve Public Communication
Health experts believed the shorter term “Mpox” would:
- Be easier to pronounce globally
- Reduce misunderstanding
- Improve awareness campaigns
- Support better healthcare communication
Is Mpox a New Disease?
No.Mpox is not a new disease. It is the same viral infection previously known as Monkeypox.
Only the disease name has changed. The virus itself is still scientifically referred to as the monkeypox virus in many medical references.
When Was the Name Changed?
WHO officially recommended the new term Mpox on 28 November 2022 after discussions with global experts and member countries.
Why Was the Old Name Considered Problematic?
During the 2022 outbreak, many reports showed:
- Racist language online
- Social stigma linked with the disease
- Misunderstanding about disease origin
- Harmful misinformation involving animals and regions
WHO emphasized that disease names should not negatively impact:
- Communities
- Countries
- Economies
- Animals
- Public health response efforts
What Symptoms Can Mpox Cause?
Symptoms may vary from mild to severe and can include:
- Fever and chills
- Skin rash or blisters
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Headache
In some cases, symptoms may become severe in children or people with weak immunity.
How Does Mpox Spread?
Mpox mainly spreads through:
- Close skin-to-skin contact
- Contact with infected rash or body fluids
- Respiratory secretions
- Shared personal items
Early awareness and hygiene are important for prevention.
How Is Mpox Diagnosed?
Doctors may recommend:
- Physical examination
- PCR testing of skin lesions
- Laboratory confirmation
PCR testing remains one of the most important methods for diagnosis.
Can Mpox Be Prevented?
Preventive measures include:
- Avoiding close contact with infected individuals
- Maintaining hygiene
- Using protective precautions
- Seeking medical attention for suspicious symptoms
Vaccination may also be recommended in selected high-risk situations.
Global Importance of the Name Change
The Mpox terminology update became an important example of how modern healthcare organizations are trying to make medical communication:
- More inclusive
- Less discriminatory
- Easier to understand globally
WHO has also updated naming approaches for virus variants and disease classifications in recent years.
Conclusion
The change from Monkeypox to Mpox represents more than just a new medical term. It reflects WHO’s effort to reduce stigma, improve global communication, and follow modern disease naming standards.
Although the disease remains the same, the updated terminology aims to support more accurate and respectful public health awareness worldwide.Source of Data
The information in this article is based on official WHO announcements and global public health references regarding the Monkeypox to Mpox terminology update.
Official Sources:WHO – Monkeypox Is Now Called Mpox
Have More Questions?
Find quick answers to common questions about our services, appointments, and patient care.
WHO changed the name to reduce stigma, discrimination, and confusion linked with the older term “Monkeypox.” The new term follows modern disease naming guidelines.
No. Mpox is the same disease previously known as Monkeypox. Only the official disease name has changed.
WHO officially recommended the name Mpox on 28 November 2022 after consultations with global health experts and member countries.
During the global outbreak, reports of racist, stigmatizing, and misleading language linked to the name “Monkeypox” increased online and in public discussions.
What are the common symptoms of Mpox?
Mpox can spread through close physical contact, respiratory droplets, infected skin lesions, and contaminated items like bedding or clothing.
“Your Health, Our Priority. Your Voice, Our Guide”
Dr.Nikhil Singh
Anaesthesia, MBBS, MD
Related Articles
Fatty Liver Is Now Called MASLD – What Changed?
Fatty liver disease is now officially called MASLD. Learn why the medical term changed, what MASLD means, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment options.
Lower Back Pain: A Guide for When to Seek Help in Lucknow
Lower back pain is a common issue, but not all aches are the same. This guide helps Lucknow residents understand when self-care is enough and when it's time to consult a doctor.
CGHS Knee Replacement Rules: Your 2024 Guide
A comprehensive guide for Central Government Health Scheme beneficiaries on the rules, rates, and procedures for getting knee replacement surgery covered.
Written by Dr.Nikhil Singh
Anaesthesia, MBBS, MD
Last reviewed: 20 May 2026
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.