WHO to rename monkeypox

WHO to rename monkeypox to remove stigma in Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) is working with experts to come up with a new name for monkeypox, its director general , Dr Tedros Adhanom Gebreyesus, said.

It comes after more than 30 scientists wrote last week about the “urgent need for a non-discriminatory and non-stigmatising” name for the virus and the disease it causes.

Continued reference to the virus as African is both inaccurate and discriminatory, they said.

Some 1,600 cases of the disease have been recorded globally in recent weeks.

Dr Tedros said the organization will make announcements about the new names as soon as possible.

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