Mpox

Mpox is an infectious disease caused by monkeypox virus, an orthopoxvirus. It can cause fever, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic rash, though symptoms and severity vary.

Monkeypox virus: An enveloped DNA virus in the genus Orthopoxvirus that causes mpox in humans and other animals. This virus is the infectious agent that produces mpox.
Mpox diagnosis: The identification of mpox, usually by detecting monkeypox virus DNA in material collected from a skin lesion. Laboratory confirmation separates mpox from illnesses with similar rashes.
Monkeypox: The former name of mpox, also used for the virus before international renaming efforts began in 2022. The older name explains historical records and remains common in some scientific contexts.
World Health Organization public health emergency of international concern: A temporary designation under the International Health Regulations for an extraordinary event posing a risk of international disease spread. The WHO used this designation during major mpox outbreaks to coordinate international action.
Orthopoxvirus: A genus of large DNA viruses that includes monkeypox virus, variola virus, and vaccinia virus. Monkeypox virus belongs to this genus and shares its relatives’ antigenic features.
Polymerase chain reaction: A laboratory method that amplifies selected DNA sequences so they can be detected and analyzed. PCR testing of lesion samples is the standard approach to confirming mpox.
Mpox name change: The World Health Organization’s 2022 decision to adopt mpox as the preferred disease name. The change addressed stigma and confusion associated with the former name.
Mpox stigma: Social discrimination and stereotyping directed at people or communities associated with mpox infection. Stigma can deter testing, care, and honest communication during outbreaks.
Zoonosis: An infectious disease that can be transmitted between nonhuman animals and humans. Mpox can pass from animal reservoirs to people, although human transmission also occurs.
Mpox vaccine: A vaccine used to prevent mpox, generally based on a live, attenuated vaccinia virus. Vaccination reduces the risk of infection or severe disease in eligible groups.

Linked from 3 pages