World Health Organization: Monkeypox renamed to Mpox

The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that Monkeypox has a new name.

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)—The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced that Monkeypox has a new name. It will now be referred to as Mpox.

Monkeypox was named in 1970 but since the start of the most recent outbreak, scientists have pushed for a name change.

They were concerned the name could create a stigma. That would steer people away from testing and vaccination.

In August, scientists requested name suggestions to replace Monkeypox. WHO says both names will be used for the next year while the term Monkeypox is phased out.

In the most recent outbreak, more than 81,000 cases have been reported in more than 110 countries.