Amid a 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department plans to conduct genomic sequencing on samples to identify potential mutations. Uncommon symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have been observed.

The health department has decided to carry out genomic sequencing on some positive chikungunya virus samples due to a nearly 55% rise in chikungunya cases this year compared to last year. State health officials clarified that although rare, symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological problems are not entirely new, and could be linked to co-infections like dengue or Japanese encephalitis.

To address the increase in chikungunya cases from 1,702 in 2023 to 2,643 in 2024 so far, a rapid action team has been established. The team has issued guidelines for collecting and analyzing samples, recommending sending samples to National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune for further investigation.

Guidelines stipulate collecting and sending two blood samples from patients displaying symptoms like paralysis and hyperpigmentation for analysis to identify potential mutations in the virus. Genomic sequencing is expected to provide insights into any genetic changes in the virus.

The initiative aims to enhance the understanding of chikungunya infections and improve strategies for managing the outbreak.The doctor emphasized the importance of sequencing promptly once we have sufficient samples, especially from patients in the ICU or with severe symptoms. Medical professionals from private hospitals in the city reported a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization to treat prolonged high fever and neurological issues. Children have also been affected this year, as seen with 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 show hyperpigmentation, a known symptom of the disease.