Amid a 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department plans to conduct genomic sequencing of samples to identify potential mutations. Uncommon symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have been observed. The State Health Department in Mumbai has decided to conduct genomic sequencing on some positive samples due to a nearly 55% rise in chikungunya cases this year compared to the previous year, according to a recent statement by health officials. The emergence of rare symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological problems (inflammation in brain or heart tissues) is not new but highly uncommon. Dr. Mahendra Jagtap, Joint Director of the Vector Control Programme, explained that these symptoms could manifest in chikungunya patients with co-infections like dengue or Japanese encephalitis. The state has formed a rapid action team to investigate the reasons behind the increase in chikungunya cases from 1,702 in 2023 to 2,643 in 2024. Guidelines have been issued for collecting and sending samples for further analysis to the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune. The team recommends collecting samples from patients showing neurological symptoms like paralysis and hyperpigmentation for further evaluation. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College emphasized that genomic sequencing could help identify any mutations present."We will start sequencing as soon as we receive sufficient samples, especially from ICU patients or those experiencing severe symptoms," stated the expert. Private sector doctors in the city noted a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year. Some patients required hospitalization to manage their prolonged high fever for 10 to 15 days, along with neurological complications. Children have also been significantly affected this year, with an eight-month-old boy being admitted to SRCC Children's Hospital in Haji Ali in early August. At Surya Children's Hospital in Santa Cruz, pediatrician Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi mentioned that children born to chikungunya-positive mothers exhibit hyperpigmentation as a symptom, which is a well-documented effect of chikungunya."