Ampox is a viral infection similar to smallpox. The disease has raised global concern after the World Health Organization (WHO) declared it a health emergency, and has now spread to more than 116 countries.

Ampox, formerly known as monkeypox, has two main types that differ in their severity and geographic origin: the Central African (Congo Basin) type and the West African type.

Each of these species has its own unique characteristics that influence the severity of the disease and its impact on the affected population.

The Central African (Congo Basin) species, known as clade 1b, is considered the more dangerous of the two.

This species is known for its higher virulence, causing more severe symptoms and complications. Patients infected with the Central African species are at greater risk of experiencing serious health problems, including a higher mortality rate.

This species is found primarily in Central African countries, where it has historically caused more severe outbreaks with mortality rates up to 10%.

According to the World Health Organization, clade 1B causes death in about 3.6% of cases, and children are at higher risk.

In contrast, the West African strain, known as clade 2, is less severe, with symptoms typically milder and a low case fatality rate, typically less than 1%.

This strain is more common in West African countries and has been linked to less severe outbreaks. Although it is still a serious illness, the West African strain is less likely to cause death or serious complications.

While both types of ampox pose a health threat, clade 1B is more deadly, requiring more vigilant public health measures to prevent and control outbreaks.

India has put hospitals and airports on high alert to monitor, manage and isolate any cases of ampox in the country. No cases of ampox have been reported so far.