The health department is planning to conduct genomic sequencing of chikungunya samples due to a 55% increase in cases this year. Unusual symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have been reported. In response to the rise in chikungunya cases, the health department will be analyzing positive samples for any genetic mutations in the virus. State health officials have clarified that rare symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological problems may occur in chikungunya patients with co-infections of dengue or Japanese encephalitis. A rapid action team has been established to investigate the reasons behind the surge in cases and guidelines have been issued for sample collection and analysis. Additionally, blood samples from patients displaying specific neurological symptoms will be sent for further analysis to detect any mutations in the virus."We will start sequencing as soon as we receive sufficient samples, particularly from patients in the intensive care unit or those with severe symptoms," he stated. Physicians at private hospitals in the city noted a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization to manage their prolonged high fever and neurological complications for 10 to 15 days. Children have also been impacted, with an eight-month-old boy being 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 infected with chikungunya may exhibit hyperpigmentation as a symptom. "Nevertheless, hyperpigmentation is a commonly observed symptom of chikungunya," he explained.