Amid a 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department is planning to perform genomic sequencing on samples in order to identify potential mutations. Uncommon symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have been observed. The health department in Mumbai has decided to conduct genomic sequencing on select positive samples to investigate possible genetic mutations in the chikungunya virus due to the significant rise in cases this year. State health officials clarified that rare symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological problems (such as brain or heart tissue swelling) are not new but are extremely unusual. These symptoms may occur in chikungunya patients with co-infections of dengue or Japanese encephalitis, according to Dr. Mahendra Jagtap, Joint Director of the vector control programme. A rapid action team has been established by the state to analyze the reasons behind the increase in chikungunya cases, which have risen from 1,702 cases in 2023 to 2,643 cases in 2024 so far. Guidelines have been issued for officials at both civic and taluka levels regarding the submission of samples to the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune for further examination. The guidelines specify that two blood samples should be collected from patients displaying neurological symptoms like paralysis and hyperpigmentation and sent to the Pune institutes. The goal is to investigate the presence of other neurotropic viruses in chikungunya patients and to conduct genomic sequencing. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College emphasized that genomic sequencing will help identify any mutations present."We will prioritize sequencing once we receive sufficient samples, particularly from ICU patients or those with severe symptoms," stated the doctor. Private hospitals in the city reported a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, necessitating hospitalization for some patients due to high fever lasting 10 to 15 days and potential neurological complications. Children have also been notably affected, as evidenced by the case of an eight-month-old boy admitted to SRCC Children's Hospital in Haji Ali. Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi from Surya Children's Hospital in Santa Cruz noted that children born to mothers with chikungunya may exhibit hyperpigmentation, a known symptom of the disease.