Amid a 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department is planning to conduct genomic sequencing on samples to identify potential mutations. Uncommon symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have been reported. In response to the significant rise in chikungunya fever cases compared to last year, health officials have announced that they will analyze certain positive samples for genetic mutations in the virus. They confirmed that these newly reported symptoms, like hyperpigmentation and neurological problems, are rare occurrences and could be linked to co-infections such as dengue or Japanese encephalitis. A rapid action team has been established to investigate the surge in chikungunya cases, providing guidelines for the collection and analysis of samples to determine potential causes. The team has recommended sending samples showing neurological symptoms to research institutes for further study, aiming to identify any mutations through genomic sequencing."We will prioritize sequencing once we receive sufficient samples, particularly from patients in the intensive care unit or with severe symptoms," he stated. Private sector physicians in the city reported a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization to manage their prolonged high fevers for 10 to 15 days, along with neurological complications. Children have also been notably impacted this year, as shown by the case of an eight-month-old boy admitted to SRCC Children's Hospital in Haji Ali during the first week of August. At Surya Children's Hospital in Santa Cruz, pediatrician Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi revealed that children born to mothers who tested positive for chikungunya exhibit hyperpigmentation as a symptom. "However, hyperpigmentation is a known documented symptom of chikungunya," he clarified.