During 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 recently been observed. In Mumbai, the health department has decided to perform genomic sequencing on certain positive samples to investigate for any genetic changes in the virus due to the nearly 55% rise in chikungunya fever cases compared to last year. State health officials stated that rare symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological problems are not new but are exceptionally uncommon. These symptoms may manifest in chikungunya patients with concurrent dengue or Japanese encephalitis infections. A rapid action team has been established to analyze the factors contributing to the increase in chikungunya cases from 1,702 in 2023 to 2,643 in 2024. The team has issued guidelines for local officials on sample collection for further analysis at the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune. Samples from patients exhibiting neurological symptoms like paralysis and hyperpigmentation should be sent to the Pune institutes for examination. Genomic sequencing aims to identify any mutations in the virus. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College emphasized that genomic sequencing is crucial in detecting potential mutations."Initiate sequencing promptly once we have sufficient samples, especially from ICU patients or those with severe symptoms," stated the doctor. Private hospitals in the city reported a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization to address their prolonged high fever and possible neurological issues for 10 to 15 days. This year, children have been affected as well, with an eight-month-old boy being hospitalized in SRCC Children's Hospital in Haji Ali in early August. At Surya Children's Hospital in Santa Cruz, pediatrician Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi mentioned that children born to mothers positive for chikungunya may display hyperpigmentation as a symptom, which is a known characteristic of the illness."