Initial Name Change ​to Mpox

In November 2022, the World Health institution (WHO) ‍announced a shift in‍ terminology, changing the disease name from monkeypox to mpox. This decision followed reports of “racist adn⁣ stigmatizing language” being used online and within communities according to the US ‌Centers for Disease Control⁣ and Prevention (CDC). The WHO clarified‌ that it has‌ the authority to⁤ name diseases under the International classification ⁢of Diseases (ICD) through a consultative process involving its Member States.

It’s significant to note that the WHO’s authority extends to​ disease *names* only;⁣ the International Committee⁢ on Taxonomy of Viruses retains the power to name⁤ viruses themselves, and has not altered the name of the monkeypox virus.

Global Adoption of Mpox

Following the​ WHO’s guidance,‌ many organizations, including the US CDC, adopted “mpox” in thier communications and health‍ details as reflected on their website.

Reversion to Monkeypox by the CDC

However, in recent months, the CDC unexpectedly reverted to using “monkeypox.” This change was first reported by NPR on September 12, 2025. ​ When questioned by journalists, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), ⁢which oversees the CDC, has responded with the statement that​ “Monkeypox is the name of the ⁣viral disease caused by ‍the monkeypox virus,” a statement that is factually inaccurate.