Monkeypox: WHO to rename disease over stigmatisation concerns — invites suggestions

Monkeypox was given its name when the disease was first identified back in 1958 in research monkeys in a laboratory in Copenhagen, Denmark.

It is thought, however, that monkeys do not provide a natural reservoir for the virus — with scientists suspecting such may be found among rodent populations.

In a statement on Friday, a WHO spokesperson said that the decision to rename monkeypox was made this week following a meeting of experts — and is in line with the current best practices for disease nomenclature.

These practices, they added, aim “to avoid causing offence to any cultural, social, national, regional, professional, or ethnic groups”.

They also strive to “minimise any negative impact on trade, travel, tourism or animal welfare”.

READ MORE: WHO director poised to declare monkeypox outbreak a global emergency

Article source: https://www.express.co.uk/news/science/1654718/monkeypox-who-to-rename-disease-over-stigmatisation-concerns-invites-suggestions