In response to a 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department is planning to conduct genomic sequencing of samples to identify potential mutations. Uncommon symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological issues have been reported. The rise in chikungunya cases has prompted the health department to investigate possible genetic mutations in the virus by sequencing positive samples. These unusual symptoms, including hyperpigmentation and neurological problems, are rare and can occur in patients with concurrent dengue or Japanese encephalitis infections, according to Dr. Mahendra Jagtap, the joint director of the vector control program. A rapid action team has been established to examine the reasons behind the increase in chikungunya cases, which have risen from 1,702 cases in 2023 to 2,643 cases in 2024. Guidelines have been provided for collecting and sending samples for further analysis to the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune. The team recommends sending blood samples from patients displaying neurological symptoms like paralysis and hyperpigmentation for genomic sequencing to identify any mutations. Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte from B J Medical College highlights that genomic sequencing will aid in identifying potential mutations.The doctor emphasized the importance of sequencing as soon as we have enough samples, particularly from patients in the intensive care unit or with severe symptoms. According to doctors in private hospitals in the city, there has been a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients needing hospitalization to manage high fever for 10 to 15 days and dealing with neurological complications. Children have also been affected this year, such as an eight-month-old boy who 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 noted that children born to chikungunya-positive mothers may exhibit hyperpigmentation as a symptom, a well-documented characteristic of chikungunya.