Amid a 55% increase in cases of chikungunya this year, the health department is planning to conduct genomic sequencing of samples to identify possible mutations. Uncommon symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological issues are now being observed. In response to the significant surge in chikungunya cases this year compared to last year, the health department in Mumbai will be performing genomic sequencing on select positive samples to detect any genetic changes in the virus. State health officials have confirmed that unique symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological problems are not new but are rare occurrences. These symptoms may manifest when a chikungunya patient is co-infected with dengue or Japanese encephalitis, according to Dr. Mahendra Jagtap, Joint Director of the vector control program. Additionally, a rapid action team has been established to investigate the reasons behind the increase in chikungunya cases from 1,702 in 2023 to 2,643 so far in 2024. The team has issued guidelines for local officials to send samples for analysis at the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune. Specifically, blood samples from patients displaying neurological symptoms should be collected and sent for examination to identify any other neurotropic viruses and to conduct genomic sequencing. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College emphasized that genomic sequencing will be crucial in identifying any potential mutations in the virus."We will start sequencing once we receive enough samples, especially from patients in the intensive care unit or with severe symptoms," he mentioned. Doctors from private hospitals in the city noted a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization for 10 to 15 days to manage their high fever and neurological issues. Children have also been affected, such as an eight-month-old boy who was admitted to SRCC Children's Hospital in Haji Ali in early August. Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi, a pediatrician at Surya Children's Hospital in Santa Cruz, mentioned that children born to mothers with chikungunya may exhibit hyperpigmentation, which is a well-known symptom of the disease."