
Mpox (formerly Monkeypox)
Mpox is a rare disease caused by infection with a virus. We’ve known mpox can cause disease in people since 1970. Before 2022, monkeypox was mostly seen in parts of central and west Africa. During 2022, mpox was reported in places where it is not usually found. This includes countries around the world, including the U.S. and here in Ohio.
Following a series of consultations with global experts, the Ohio Department of Health will begin using a new preferred term “mpox” as a synonym for monkeypox. Both names will be used simultaneously for one year while “monkeypox” is phased out.