During a significant 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department is planning to conduct genomic sequencing of samples to identify potential mutations. Uncommon symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have been observed. In response to the surge in chikungunya cases, the health department in Mumbai has decided to perform genomic sequencing on select positive samples to detect any genetic changes in the virus. State health officials clarified that unusual symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological problems are not new but are exceedingly rare occurrences. These symptoms may arise when a chikungunya patient is co-infected with diseases such as dengue or Japanese encephalitis. The state has established a rapid action team to investigate the reasons behind the increase in chikungunya cases. Guidelines have been issued for officials at the municipal and taluka levels regarding the submission of samples for further analysis to the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune. The guidelines specify that samples from patients displaying neurological symptoms should be collected and sent for analysis, aiming to identify any neurotropic viruses present and conduct genomic sequencing. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College highlighted that genomic sequencing would assist in identifying any mutations.The doctor emphasized the importance of sequencing samples promptly upon receiving enough, particularly from patients in the intensive care unit or with severe symptoms. Private hospitals in the city reported a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization for up to 10 to 15 days due to high fever and neurological complications. Children are also being affected, as evidenced by an eight-month-old boy admitted to SRCC Children's Hospital in Haji Ali in early August. At Surya Children's Hospital in Santa Cruz, pediatrician Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi noted that children born to mothers with chikungunya may exhibit hyperpigmentation, a known symptom of the virus.