In May 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) noticed the first mpox case, leading to a worldwide outbreak. This outbreak has spread to over 110 countries1. By January 31, 2023, there were 85,549 confirmed mpox cases and 89 deaths worldwide1. This crisis made us rethink the virus’s name and how we classify it, aiming for less stigmatizing terms.
🦠 From Monkeypox to Mpox: The Evolution of a Virus and Its Nomenclature 🧬
What is Mpox?
Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral infection caused by the mpox virus, a member of the same family of viruses as smallpox. The disease has been known to science for several decades and has recently gained increased global attention.
Key Points in Mpox History
- 📅 First discovered in research animals in the late 1950s
- 👤 First human case reported in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 1970
- 🌍 Outbreaks have occurred in various parts of the world
- 🌐 Global attention increased significantly in recent years
- ✏️ World Health Organization (WHO) officially adopted the term “mpox” in 2022
Why the Name Change?
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommended the name change from “monkeypox” to “mpox” to:
- 🚫 Reduce stigma associated with the disease
- 🌍 Avoid geographic or animal associations that may be inaccurate
- 📚 Align with best practices for naming diseases
- 🤝 Promote more inclusive public health communication
Key Facts About Mpox
- 🧬 Caused by the mpox virus, genus Orthopoxvirus
- 🦠 Related to smallpox but generally less severe
- 😷 Symptoms can include fever, rash, and swollen lymph nodes
- 🔬 Can be transmitted through close contact with infected animals or humans
- 💉 Some vaccines developed for smallpox may provide protection against mpox
Areas of Ongoing Research and Management
- 🔍 Understanding transmission patterns
- 💊 Development of specific treatments
- 🌐 Improving global surveillance systems
- 💉 Vaccine research and distribution
- 📊 Studying the full spectrum of disease severity
Current Focus in Mpox Research
- 🧪 Improving diagnostic methods
- 💉 Evaluating vaccine efficacy
- 🧬 Studying virus evolution
- 📱 Developing effective public health strategies
- 🤖 Utilizing technology for outbreak monitoring
Global Response and Collaboration
The global response to mpox has highlighted the importance of international collaboration in addressing emerging infectious diseases. Key aspects include:
- 🤝 Coordinated research efforts across countries
- 📊 Sharing of epidemiological data
- 💉 Efforts towards equitable distribution of medical resources
- 📢 Public health education and awareness campaigns
- 🏥 Strengthening healthcare systems globally
For More Information
For the most up-to-date and accurate information about mpox, please consult official health organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or your national health authority.
Recent research has greatly improved our knowledge of the mpox virus. Studies have uncovered its history, genetic changes, and why it’s spreading globally231. Now, we must consider why the disease was renamed and why a new, neutral name system for the virus clades is needed.
Key Takeaways
- The World Health Organization (WHO) has endorsed “mpox” as the new name for the disease formerly known as “monkeypox”.
- The renaming aims to prevent stigmatization and discrimination associated with the previous name.
- Scientists have proposed a new, neutral nomenclature system for the different clades of the mpox virus.
- Ongoing research explores the genomic variability and evolution of the mpox virus, including the emergence of new lineages.
- The 2022 global outbreak has been a significant public health challenge, with over 85,000 confirmed cases and 89 deaths reported.
Monkeypox: The Early Years
The disease we now call monkeypox has a long and fascinating history4. It was first found in 1958 during outbreaks in monkey colonies for research4. The first human case was reported in 1970 in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo4. This early finding outside its usual areas in Central and West Africa has helped us understand its history and how it changed over time.
Discovery and Initial Human Cases
Mpox was first discovered in laboratory monkeys, earning its name4. The virus was isolated from these monkeys in 1958, giving us our first clues about it4. Then, in the next decade, the first human case was found, marking a big step from animals to humans5. This happened in 1970, when a child in the Democratic Republic of Congo was found to have the virus, which was thought to be smallpox at first5.
Emergence of Two Distinct Clades
As monkeypox spread, researchers found different genetic types or “clades” of the virus4. Two main clades were found: the Congo Basin and the West African clades4. The Congo Basin clade caused more severe illness, with death rates up to 10%4. On the other hand, the West African clade, which caused the 2022 outbreak, has a survival rate over 99.9% and is mainly found in West Africa4.
These early years of monkeypox laid the groundwork for its ongoing evolution and the awareness of its health risks. As the world learned more about it, the stage was set for the big events that would happen later.
| Clade | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Congo Basin Clade | – Associated with more severe illness – Historical death rates up to 10% |
| West African Clade | – Led to the 2022 global outbreak – Over 99.9% survival rate – Endemic to West Africa |
“The early years of monkeypox set the stage for the virus’s continued evolution and the growing awareness of its threats to global health.”
The 2022 Global Outbreak
In May 2022, a worrying global outbreak of monkeypox started6. This outbreak was caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV). It is part of the Poxviridae family and has two main types, clade I and clade II6.
Rapid Spread and Public Health Emergency
The first report of the outbreak was made to the World Health Organization (WHO) on May 13, 20227. The virus spread fast, reaching over 110 countries. This led the WHO to declare it a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) on July 23, 20226. The WHO’s Director-General asked countries to respect human rights and fight stigma linked to the outbreak7.
The virus’s genome showed it belongs to clade 3 and likely came from one source8. The virus strains are very similar, pointing to a single source8. The virus’s changes were studied, showing 46 new changes, including 24 that change the protein’s function8.
The first virus sequence showed it fits into clade 3 of the Orthopoxvirus group8. Studying the virus’s genome helps track its spread. This information is key for finding treatments and vaccines8.
| Characteristic | Details |
|---|---|
| Transmission | Monkeypox spreads through touching or kissing someone with a rash6. It can also spread from animals to humans through bites or scratches6. |
| Symptoms | Symptoms include a skin rash, fever, and muscle aches6. The rash starts flat and turns into a blister6. |
| Prevention and Treatment | Prevent by avoiding contact with infected people and getting vaccinated for high-risk groups6. Most people get better in 2-4 weeks6. Treatment includes supportive care and vaccines for smallpox can help6. |
The 2022 MPXV outbreak has been a big health worry worldwide. It needed a global response. The fast spread and emergency declaration show we must stay alert and use effective strategies to fight this outbreak.
Concerns over Stigmatizing Nomenclature
When monkeypox spread this year, we saw harmful language being used online and in communities9. This led many to call for a name change for the disease10. The World Health Organization (WHO) listened and started a process to find a new name10.
The WHO worked with experts to pick a new name, “mpox,” for monkeypox10. This change will happen over a year to ease the transition10. The name “mpox” will also be part of the International Classification of Diseases10.
“The new name mpox is more neutral, more acceptable, and easier to use.”10
By choosing a less stigmatizing name, the WHO aims for a more inclusive approach to the monkeypox outbreak911. This change is key to moving past harmful names and towards better health practices10. Learn more about this shift towards non-discriminatory terminology10
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Over 80,000 cases of monkeypox identified in countries that had not previously reported the disease before May. | 9 |
| Monkeypox primarily affects individuals in contact with infected animals in Africa. | 9 |
| Nearly all cases of monkeypox outside of Africa occurred in gay, bisexual, or men who have sex with men. | 9 |
| At least 1111 human cases of MPXV confirmed or suspected as of June 8, 2022. | 11 |
| MPXV infection primarily caused by spill-over events from animals to humans. | 11 |
| MPXV outbreaks reported in Africa with rare instances of sustained human-to-human transmission. | 11 |
| Global MPXV outbreak detected with no clear link to Africa, with cases found in 44 countries. | 11 |
| The World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced a new preferred term for the disease caused by the monkeypox virus: mpox. | 10 |
| The virus itself remains unchanged. | 10 |
| The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses has decided to keep the original name of the virus to maintain the continuity of the scientific literature. | 10 |
| The two branches of the monkeypox virus have been renamed: the former Congo Basin (Central African) clade as clade I and the West African clade as clade II. | 10 |
WHO Guidelines for Disease Naming
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), they name new and sometimes old diseases. This is done under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the WHO Family of International Health Related Classifications12. Experts, countries, and the public can suggest names12.
The WHO’s guidelines aim to avoid negative effects on trade, travel, tourism, or animal welfare12. They changed the name from monkeypox to mpox for good reasons. These include the name’s logic, scientific fit, ease of use in languages, and avoiding geographical or zoological references12.
In 2022, the WHO asked for public help with the monkeypox name change. They wanted to use a name that doesn’t stigmatize and is more neutral12. This shows their commitment to naming diseases in a way that is sensitive, accurate, and helps everyone12.
“Assigning names to new and, very exceptionally, to existing diseases is the responsibility of WHO under the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) and the WHO Family of International Health Related Classifications through a consultative process which includes WHO Member States.”
The WHO is a key global health authority. Their guidelines on disease naming are vital for how we talk about new diseases, like mpox13. They focus on being sensitive, accurate, and working together with the world. This helps us talk about health issues in a better way12.
Renaming the Virus: From Monkeypox to Mpox
The World Health Organization (WHO) has renamed the monkeypox virus to mpox14. This change was made after talking with health experts worldwide. They wanted to reduce the negative effects of the old name. The process of renaming was thorough, focusing on scientific accuracy, ease of use, and keeping historical context.
The Renaming Process
The WHO quickly decided to rename monkeypox as mpox, skipping the usual slow process of updating the International Classification of Diseases (ICD)14. They recognized the need for a fast change to address the old name’s issues.
Rationale for the New Name
The name mpox was chosen to reduce confusion during the outbreak14. It also aims to remove harmful associations with geography and animals. The WHO looked at many factors for the new name, like how easy it is to say and use in different languages, and how well it keeps historical data.
| Key Considerations for the New Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Rationale | To address concerns about stigmatizing and racist connotations associated with the previous name |
| Scientific Appropriateness | The new name should be scientifically accurate and appropriate |
| Extent of Current Usage | The new name should be easy to adopt and integrate into existing usage |
| Pronounceability | The new name should be easily pronounceable in various languages |
| Usability | The new name should be user-friendly and intuitive |
| Absence of Geographical or Zoological References | The new name should avoid any references that could contribute to stigmatization |
| Ease of Retrieval of Historical Scientific Information | The new name should allow for easy access to existing scientific data and research |
The change to mpox will happen over the next year, with a careful plan14. This approach ensures a smooth change and helps avoid confusion as we deal with the mpox outbreak.
“We are aware that various opinions exist about the new name. No matter what name is given to a disease, stigma and discrimination can occur. The new name was chosen following broad consultations to avoid causing offense to any cultural, social, national, regional, professional, or ethnic groups.”
– Dr. Rosamund Lewis, WHO Technical Lead on Monkeypox
Classifying Monkeypox Virus Clades
The monkeypox virus (MPXV) caught the world’s attention in 2022-2023. It was clear we needed a clear and fair way to name its genetic groups15. Researchers and health experts worked together to create a consistent classification for these virus groups.
The Need for Neutral Nomenclature
MPXV has two main types: Clade I from the Congo Basin and Clade II from West Africa15. To prevent bias and focus on the virus’s genetic makeup, scientists wanted a naming system without geographic ties.
Clade Designations: I, II, IIa, and IIb
In August 2022, the World Health Organization (WHO) met to talk about MPXV clades and a new naming plan15. They agreed to use Roman numerals for naming, with Clade I for the Congo Basin and Clade II for West Africa, split into IIa and IIb16. This system helps classify the virus based on its genes, not where it’s found.
Clades I and II are quite different genetically, more so than IIa and IIb16. This naming method helps us understand how the virus changes and spreads. It gives us a better view of its health impact.
“Reaching consensus quickly on the nomenclature of virus variants was important, as it ensures a neutral and objective system that facilitates scientific collaboration and communication.” – WHO expert
Tracking Emerging Lineages
The monkeypox virus, now known as mpox, is changing. We need a strong system to track new lineages and variants. A genealogical nomenclature system is being suggested. It aims to give a clear and neutral way to name mpxv lineages17.
This system is similar to how SARS-CoV-2 is named. It uses an uppercase Latin character, a dot, and a number. The number shows how many times the character has branched off. For instance, a lineage might be Clade IIb.A.1. Here, IIb is the subclade, A the first branch, and 1 the first variant18.
This naming method is important for several reasons. It helps us see how the virus spreads and changes over time17. It also avoids using names that might unfairly label certain places or groups18.
As mpox continues to spread, tracking its lineages is key. It helps us spot new variants and fight the virus1719.
| Clade Designation | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Clade I | Previously known as the Congo Basin clade, this clade is associated with more severe disease and higher mortality rates. |
| Clade IIa | Previously known as the West African clade, this clade is associated with milder disease and lower mortality rates. |
| Clade IIb | The clade primarily associated with the 2022 global outbreak, which has been characterized by sustained human-to-human transmission and a novel mode of transmission through close contact and sexual activity. |
Using this genealogical nomenclature for mpox variants will help us understand the virus better. It will also support efforts to control the outbreak18.
From Monkeypox to Mpox: The Evolution of a Virus and Its Nomenclature
The World Health Organization (WHO) has made a big move with the mpox outbreak. WHO will now use “mpox” instead of the old name. They ask others to do the same to lessen the bad effects of the old name and make it easier to switch to the new one20.
There’s also talk about changing the disease’s name in the WHO International Classification of Diseases (ICD). This change could help use “mpox” as a new name for monkeypox20. WHO plans to use “mpox” after talking with experts worldwide20.
The ICD-10 online will soon add “mpox” as a synonym. It will officially be part of ICD-11 in 2023, the global health standard20. Updating the ICD was done fast, unlike the usual years-long process20.
Changing the virus’s name from “monkeypox” to “mpox” marks a big change in how we talk about it21. Early studies found that the virus has two main groups, tracing back to a 2017-2018 outbreak21. Also, analyzing 105 MPXV genomes showed the virus has been changing slowly over time since then21.
| Key Insights | Data |
|---|---|
| Confirmed mpox cases in 94 countries since the start of the ongoing outbreak | 49,48221 |
| Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) differentiating the first 18 viral genomes from the 2022 outbreak from those from 2017–2018 | At least 5121 |
| Substitutions in viral genomes from 2022 that were G>A/C>T transitions, influenced by the editing activity of the human APOBEC3G enzyme | 61 out of 70 (87.1%)21 |
These findings show the virus has been changing a lot since 2017-201821. Also, comparing viruses from 2022 with older ones showed big changes in how they differ21.
The name change from “monkeypox” to “mpox” is a big step forward20. It aims to lessen the bad effects of the old name and make it easier to switch20. WHO wants everyone to start using “mpox” to help with this change20.
“Prior to the 2022 global monkeypox outbreak, efforts were already underway to reconsider the naming of all orthopoxvirus species by the International Committee on the Taxonomy of Viruses.”20
The virus and its name are always changing, and this renaming is a big step2120.
Mpox in the International Classification of Diseases
The global health community is making progress in classifying the mpox virus. The World Health Organization is adding “mpox” to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). This change will be part of the 2023 ICD-11, the global health standard22.
This move aims to reduce stigma and discrimination. The term “monkeypox” will still be searchable in the ICD for historical data. But, “mpox” is now the preferred name, marking a big step in understanding this virus22.
| Characteristic | Monkeypox Virus | Smallpox Virus |
|---|---|---|
| Genus | Orthopoxvirus | Orthopoxvirus |
| Mortality Rate | 10-30% | |
| Person-to-Person Spread | Significantly Lower | High |
Adding “mpox” to the ICD is a key step in standardizing disease names22. It helps healthcare workers, health officials, and the public talk about the virus clearly and inclusively22.
The inclusion of “mpox” in the ICD shows the need for updated and inclusive disease names22. This change is a big step in tackling this health issue with clear, sensitive, and precise language22.
“The renaming of monkeypox to mpox is a critical step in destigmatizing the virus and ensuring accurate, non-discriminatory language is used in the global health community.”
– Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization23
Challenges and Controversies
When the world changed “Monkeypox” to “Mpox,” it faced many challenges and debates24. Experts from 45 countries worked together to pick a new name24.
They had to find a name that was both scientifically correct and kind. The name “mpox” had to match the virus well but not offend anyone. They also talked about how to use the new name in many languages24.
Dealing with the virus’s long history of names was tough. The virus has had many names since it was first found in 1956. Changing its name to “Mpox” was a careful process24.
“The preferred term mpox can be used in other languages, and if additional naming issues arise, these will be addressed via the same mechanism.”
Dealing with the challenges with disease name changes is important. Keeping a balance between being scientifically right and being sensitive is key. Changing Monkeypox to Mpox is a big step towards a better naming system24.
The Role of Viral Evolution
Exploring the naming of the monkeypox virus shows how viral evolution affects its spread. Recent studies reveal how the virus changes and adapts in new places.
APOBEC3 and Genome Editing
Researchers look into APOBEC3 enzymes and their role in monkeypox virus evolution25. These enzymes can change the virus’s genes, adding to its genetic variety25. This helps us understand how the virus can quickly adapt.
Gene Loss and Host Range
Gene loss and changes in host range are key to MPXV evolution25. Studies show that MPXV can spread to new hosts by losing genes and changing its host range25. This shows how important it is to watch how MPXV changes over time.
Early studies from the 2022 outbreak showed MPXV is changing fast, with genes duplicating and deleting2526. This could mean the virus can move to new hosts and places, making it hard for health experts26. Keeping track of new variants and understanding MPXV’s evolution is key to fighting future outbreaks.
| Key Findings | Implications |
|---|---|
| APOBEC3 enzymes may contribute to short-term MPXV evolution through genome editing25 | Insights into viral adaptation and potential rapid changes in MPXV |
| Gene loss and host range changes observed in orthopoxviruses25 | Ability of MPXV to adapt to new host populations and environments |
| Genetic variability in early 2022 MPXV sequences, including gene duplication and deletion2526 | Rapid evolution and potential emergence of new variants |
“Understanding the evolutionary dynamics of MPXV is crucial for tracking the emergence of new variants and predicting future outbreaks.”
As we deal with the mpox outbreak, studying viral evolution is key. By understanding how MPXV changes and adapts, researchers can help health experts prepare for what’s next2526.
Conclusion
Looking back, the journey of monkeypox to mpox is quite fascinating. The global mpox outbreak reached over 110 countries, making it a major public health issue. It highlights the need for early disease tracking and clear communication27.
Changing the name from monkeypox to mpox is a big step towards ending stigma. It also brings the naming in line with today’s best practices27. Scientists and the WHO worked together to create a neutral name for the virus. This will help in keeping the public informed and tracking the disease27.
We must keep a close watch on the mpox virus as we move forward. By staying updated and using effective strategies, we can lessen the outbreak’s effects. This will help in managing this health challenge28.
FAQ
What is the new name for monkeypox?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has chosen “mpox” as the new name for the disease. This was once called monkeypox.
Why was the name monkeypox changed to mpox?
The name change aims to avoid hurting or affecting any group unfairly. It also follows WHO’s guidelines for naming new diseases.
When did the WHO recommend the name change from monkeypox to mpox?
In August 2022, the WHO suggested “mpox” as a new name for monkeypox. They want everyone to use mpox after a year, making it the main name.
What are the two main clades of the monkeypox virus?
The main types of the monkeypox virus are the Congo Basin and West African clades. These are now called Clade I and Clade II, respectively.
How are the monkeypox virus clades and emerging lineages named?
Clades are named with Roman numerals (I and II) and subclades with lowercase Latin letters (a and b). Emerging lineages get an uppercase Latin letter followed by a number (like Clade IIb.A.1).
When was the global outbreak of mpox (formerly monkeypox) first reported to the WHO?
The first report of mpox was made to the WHO on May 13, 2022. It spread to 110 countries and was declared a global health emergency.
Why was there a need to rename the monkeypox virus?
Some people thought “monkeypox” was offensive and discriminatory. Renaming it aimed to find a neutral name for the virus and disease.
How long will it take for the name change from monkeypox to mpox to be fully implemented?
The change will take a year, with mpox becoming the main name after that. This lets the WHO update its International Classification of Diseases and other materials.
How are the evolutionary dynamics of the monkeypox virus being studied?
Researchers are looking into how the virus changes, including the effect of APOBEC3 enzymes on its genome. This helps understand new variants and their spread.
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