Amid a significant 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department plans to perform genomic sequencing on samples to identify possible mutations. Uncommon symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological problems have surfaced.

In response to the almost 55% surge in chikungunya cases this year compared to the previous year, state health officials have announced the initiative to conduct genomic sequencing on select positive samples to investigate any genetic variations in the virus. These so-called new symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological issues (such as brain or heart tissue swelling) are not truly new but are exceedingly rare.

Joint director Dr. Mahendra Jagtap mentioned that these symptoms may manifest when a chikungunya patient is co-infected with dengue or Japanese encephalitis. The state has formed a rapid action team to analyze the reasons behind the rise in chikungunya cases from 1,702 in 2023 to 2,643 in 2024. Even in Greater Mumbai, chikungunya cases have escalated from double digits to 256 by September 7.

The rapid action team has issued guidelines for local officials on sample collection and analysis, with a focus on patients exhibiting neurological symptoms like paralysis and hyperpigmentation. These samples will be sent to the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune for further testing. The primary objective is to detect any other neurotropic viruses in chikungunya patients and to conduct genomic sequencing to identify mutations.

Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College emphasized that genomic sequencing will assist in identifying potential mutations for better understanding and management of the virus."The doctor emphasized the importance of sequencing as soon as we receive enough samples, especially from patients in the intensive care unit or those with severe symptoms," he said. Medical professionals at private hospitals in the city reported a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year. Some patients required hospitalization to manage their high fever for 10 to 15 days, along with experiencing neurological complications. Children, especially infants, were also significantly affected this year, such as an eight-month-old boy who was admitted to SRCC Children's Hospital in Haji Ali in early August. Dr. Bhupendra Avasthi, a pediatrician at Surya Children's Hospital in Santa Cruz, noted that children born to mothers who tested positive for chikungunya may exhibit hyperpigmentation as a symptom, which is a well-documented characteristic of the disease."