In light of a 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department is planning to perform genomic sequencing on samples to detect potential mutations. Uncommon symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have surfaced. The surge in chikungunya cases has led the health department to take action by conducting genomic sequencing on select positive samples in order to identify any genetic mutations in the virus. State health officials emphasized that the newly reported symptoms, such as hyperpigmentation and neurological problems, were not new but rather exceedingly rare. These symptoms may manifest in chikungunya patients with co-infections like dengue or Japanese encephalitis, according to Dr. Mahendra Jagtap, Joint Director of the vector control programme. A rapid response team has been established to investigate the reasons behind the rise in chikungunya cases from 1,702 in 2023 to 2,643 this year. Guidelines have been issued for collecting and sending relevant samples for further analysis to the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune. The guidelines specify that blood samples from patients showing neurological symptoms should be sent for analysis to look for other neurotropic viruses and to perform genomic sequencing. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College highlighted that genomic sequencing will be crucial in identifying any mutations that may be present."Initiate sequencing promptly upon obtaining sufficient samples, particularly from patients in the intensive care unit or experiencing severe symptoms," he stated. Private sector doctors in the city noted a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization to manage prolonged high fever and neurological complications for 10 to 15 days. Children have also been noticeably impacted this year; a baby of eight months was admitted to 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 with chikungunya may exhibit hyperpigmentation as a symptom. "Nevertheless, hyperpigmentation is a well-documented sign of chikungunya," he explained.