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 arisen. The state of Maharashtra is addressing the significant rise in chikungunya fever cases this year compared to last year by analyzing positive samples for genetic mutations in the virus. State health officials emphasized that newly reported symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological complications are rare and can occur in cases of chikungunya patients with co-infections like dengue or Japanese encephalitis. A rapid action team has been established to investigate the reasons behind the spike in chikungunya cases. Guidelines have been issued for the collection and analysis of samples at the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune. Specifically, blood samples from patients displaying neurological symptoms such as paralysis and hyperpigmentation will be sent for further analysis and genomic sequencing to identify any mutations. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College emphasized the importance of genomic sequencing in identifying mutations in the virus."As soon as we receive sufficient samples, especially from patients in the intensive care unit or with severe symptoms, we will begin sequencing," stated the doctor. Private sector physicians in the city's hospitals reported a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization to manage persistent high fever and neurological complications for 10 to 15 days. This year, children have also been notably affected, as evidenced by the admission of an eight-month-old boy 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 chikungunya-positive mothers may show hyperpigmentation as a symptom, which is a well-documented characteristic of the disease."