During a significant 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department is planning to perform genomic sequencing on samples to identify potential mutations. Uncommon symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have surfaced. The state health officials stated that despite the rise in cases, such new symptoms are rare and could be linked to co-infections with other viruses like dengue or Japanese encephalitis. A rapid action team has been established to investigate the reasons behind the surge in chikungunya cases. Guidelines have been issued for collecting samples from patients displaying neurological symptoms for further analysis at the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune. The objective is to identify any other neurotropic viruses in chikungunya patients and perform genomic sequencing to detect mutations."When we receive enough samples, especially from ICU patients or those with severe symptoms, we will start sequencing," stated the expert. Private hospitals in the city reported a significant rise in chikungunya cases this year, leading to some patients requiring hospitalization to manage their prolonged high fever and related neurological issues for up to 10 to 15 days. Notably, children have been affected this year, with an eight-month-old boy admitted to SRCC Children's Hospital in Haji Ali in early August. Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi from Surya Children's Hospital in Santa Cruz mentioned that children born to chikungunya-positive mothers may exhibit hyperpigmentation, which is a known symptom of the disease."