WHO Recommends New Name for Monkeypox Disease: A Step Towards Reducing Stigma
In a move aimed at reducing stigma and promoting a more inclusive approach to public health, the World Health Organization (WHO) has recommended a new name for monkeypox disease. This decision reflects the growing recognition of the need to address the social and cultural implications of disease naming. The change comes amid ongoing efforts to control the spread of the virus and improve global public health strategies. This article explores the reasons behind the name change, the implications for public health, and what this means for the future of disease naming conventions.
Why Change the Name?
The term « monkeypox » has been in use since the disease was first identified in 1958. However, the name has come under scrutiny in recent years due to its potential to contribute to stigma and misinformation. The virus is not exclusive to monkeys and is found in various animal species, including rodents. Moreover, the association with monkeys has led to negative perceptions and discriminatory attitudes, particularly in African countries where the disease is more prevalent.
WHO’s decision to recommend a new name for monkeypox is part of a broader effort to ensure that disease names are neutral, non-discriminatory, and do not cause harm to communities. The new name is intended to reflect a more accurate understanding of the disease and to avoid reinforcing harmful stereotypes.
The Process of Renaming
Renaming a disease is not a simple process. The WHO follows a rigorous procedure that involves consultations with experts in virology, epidemiology, and public health, as well as input from affected communities. The goal is to choose a name that is scientifically accurate, culturally sensitive, and easy to communicate.
In the case of monkeypox, the WHO considered several factors in recommending a new name. These included the need to avoid animal references, reduce geographical bias, and ensure that the name would not cause confusion with other diseases. The new name is expected to be announced following further consultations and agreement among member states.
Implications for Public Health
The renaming of monkeypox has significant implications for public health. First and foremost, it helps to reduce stigma, which can be a major barrier to effective disease control. Stigmatized communities may be less likely to seek medical care or participate in public health interventions, leading to poorer health outcomes and increased transmission of the disease.
By adopting a new, neutral name, the WHO aims to create a more supportive environment for those affected by the virus. This can improve cooperation with public health efforts, encourage early reporting of cases, and reduce the spread of misinformation.
Moreover, the name change can enhance global understanding of the disease. A more accurate name can help clarify the nature of the virus, its transmission, and its effects, leading to better-informed public health strategies. This is particularly important in a globalized world where diseases can spread rapidly across borders, and clear communication is essential for effective response.
The Broader Context of Disease Naming
The renaming of monkeypox is part of a larger conversation about how diseases are named. Historically, many diseases were named based on the location of the first reported cases (e.g., Spanish flu) or the animals believed to be the source of infection (e.g., swine flu). However, these naming conventions can perpetuate stigma, racism, and xenophobia, as seen in the backlash against certain communities during the COVID-19 pandemic.
In response, the WHO has developed guidelines for naming new human infectious diseases, emphasizing the importance of avoiding geographic locations, people’s names, animal species, and terms that incite fear. These guidelines aim to prevent the negative social impacts that can arise from poorly chosen names.
The renaming of monkeypox serves as a case study in the application of these guidelines and underscores the need for a thoughtful, inclusive approach to disease naming. It also highlights the role of language in shaping public perceptions and behaviors, which are critical factors in the success of public health initiatives.
What’s Next?
As the WHO moves forward with the renaming process, the new name for monkeypox will likely be integrated into global health communications, scientific literature, and public awareness campaigns. Health organizations, governments, and the media will play key roles in adopting and disseminating the new name, ensuring that it becomes the standard terminology used worldwide.
For the public, the name change will require some adjustment, but the benefits in terms of reduced stigma and improved public health communication are expected to outweigh any temporary confusion. The WHO and its partners will likely launch educational initiatives to explain the reasons behind the name change and to promote understanding of the disease under its new designation.
Conclusion
The WHO’s recommendation to rename monkeypox marks a significant step towards a more inclusive and sensitive approach to public health. By choosing a new name that avoids stigma and promotes accurate understanding, the WHO is helping to create a more equitable global health landscape. As the renaming process unfolds, it will serve as a reminder of the power of language in shaping public health outcomes and the importance of thoughtful, informed decision-making in global health governance.