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 surfaced.

In Mumbai, due to the significant rise in chikungunya cases by 55% this year compared to the previous year, the health department will be analyzing select positive samples through genomic sequencing to detect any genetic changes in the virus. A statement released by state health officials mentioned that the newly reported symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological problems (brain or heart tissue swelling) are rare but not unprecedented. Dr. Mahendra Jagtap, the joint director of the vector control program, explained that these symptoms may appear in chikungunya patients with concurrent infections of dengue or Japanese encephalitis, as mentioned in the previous year's protocols by the Centre.

To investigate the reasons behind the rise in chikungunya cases from 1,702 in 2023 to 2,643 in 2024 so far, a rapid action team has been established by the state. This team has outlined guidelines for local officials on collecting samples for further examination at the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune. The guidelines recommend taking blood samples from patients displaying neurological symptoms like paralysis and hyperpigmentation and sending them to the Pune institutes for testing. The objective is to identify any other neurotropic viruses in chikungunya patients and conduct genomic sequencing, as explained by a senior state official. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College highlighted that genomic sequencing will be instrumental in identifying potential mutations."We will start sequencing as soon as we receive enough samples, particularly from patients in the intensive care unit or with severe symptoms," a spokesperson stated. Private sector doctors in the city reported a significant increase in cases of chikungunya this year, requiring hospitalization for some patients to manage their prolonged high fever and neurological complications. This year, children have also been notably affected, 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, noted that children born to chikungunya-positive mothers may exhibit hyperpigmentation as a symptom. He added that hyperpigmentation is a well-known symptom of chikungunya.