This year, there has been a significant 55% increase in chikungunya cases, prompting the health department to plan genomic sequencing of samples to identify possible mutations. Uncommon symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have surfaced. It has been noticed that the number of chikungunya viral fever cases has increased by nearly 55% compared to last year, leading the health department to conduct genomic sequencing of selected positive samples to assess any genetic mutations within the virus. State health officials have clarified that while symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological problems are rare, they are not entirely new but are rarely seen. Dr. Mahendra Jagtap, joint director of the vector control program, stated that these symptoms may manifest when a chikungunya patient is also infected with dengue or Japanese encephalitis, as outlined in the guidelines released by the Centre last year. To investigate the rise in chikungunya cases from 1,702 in 2023 to 2,643 in 2024, a rapid action team has been established. The team has provided guidelines to local officials on collecting and sending samples to the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune for further analysis. It is recommended that two blood samples be collected from patients exhibiting neurological symptoms like paralysis and hyperpigmentation for further examination. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College emphasized that genomic sequencing will play a crucial role in identifying any mutations present.Doctors in private sector hospitals in the city reported a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, particularly in patients requiring hospitalization due to high fever lasting 10 to 15 days and developing neurological issues. Children have also been impacted, with an example of an eight-month-old boy being treated at SRCC Children's Hospital in early August. Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi from Surya Children's Hospital mentioned that children born to mothers with chikungunya may exhibit hyperpigmentation, a known symptom of the disease.