The health department plans to conduct genomic sequencing of chikungunya samples due to a 55% increase in cases this year. Uncommon symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have emerged. Officials clarify that these symptoms are rare and could be linked to co-infections like dengue or Japanese encephalitis. A rapid action team has been formed to investigate the rise in chikungunya cases. Guidelines have been issued for sending samples to the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College for analysis. Blood samples from patients with neurological symptoms will be collected for further study and genomic sequencing to identify any mutations."We will start sequencing as soon as we receive enough samples, particularly from patients in the intensive care unit or with severe symptoms," stated the doctor. Private sector doctors in the city noted a significant rise in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization to manage their prolonged high fever and neurological complications for 10 to 15 days. Children have also been heavily affected this year, with an eight-month-old boy being 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, mentioned that children born to mothers with chikungunya may exhibit hyperpigmentation as a symptom. He explained that hyperpigmentation is a commonly observed symptom of chikungunya.