Why is Monkeypox Called Monkey Pox?
Monkeypox, a viral disease that causes fever, chills, and a distinctive rash, has been known by its current name since its discovery in the late 1950s. The question of why it is called “monkeypox” may seem simple at first glance, but it is rooted in a fascinating history that intertwines the study of diseases, wildlife, and scientific terminology.
The name “monkeypox” originated from the first recorded outbreaks of the disease, which occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In the 1950s, researchers studying monkeys in the region noticed that the animals were suffering from a similar illness to smallpox, but with less severe symptoms. They named the disease “monkeypox” to differentiate it from the human form of the disease, which was called “smallpox.”
The connection between the disease and monkeys was not purely coincidental. At the time, smallpox was a widespread and deadly disease that had been eradicated in the wild through a global vaccination campaign. The discovery of a related disease in monkeys suggested that there might be a reservoir for the virus in the animal kingdom. Since the disease was not previously known to occur in humans, the researchers named it after the animal they believed to be the host.
The name “monkeypox” was adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) and has been used internationally ever since. It is important to note that the disease is not limited to monkeys, and the name does not imply that monkeys are the only carriers or that the disease is transmitted only by monkeys. Instead, the name serves as a historical reminder of the initial discovery and the connection between the disease and wildlife.
As research on monkeypox has progressed, scientists have learned that the virus is related to the variola virus, which causes smallpox. This relationship is reflected in the structure of the disease’s name, with “monkey” representing the animal host and “pox” indicating that it is a type of poxvirus, a family of viruses that includes both monkeypox and smallpox.
The name “monkeypox” has also been subject to debate and controversy. Some argue that it perpetuates stereotypes and perpetuates a connection between the disease and monkeys that may be misleading. Others maintain that the name is a historical artifact that should be preserved for its significance in the study of diseases.
In conclusion, the name “monkeypox” is a product of the historical context in which the disease was discovered. It serves as a reminder of the connection between the disease and wildlife, and the role of monkeys in the initial understanding of the virus. While the name may be subject to debate, it remains an integral part of the disease’s identity and history.
