In the midst of a 55% increase in chikungunya cases this year, the health department is planning to perform genomic sequencing on samples to identify potential mutations. Uncommon symptoms such as hyperpigmentation and neurological complications have surfaced. In light of the nearly 55% surge in chikungunya cases this year compared to the previous year, the health department intends to analyze some positive samples through genomic sequencing to identify any genetic changes in the virus. State health officials clarified that reported new symptoms like hyperpigmentation and neurological issues (brain or heart tissue swelling) are unusual but not novel, potentially occurring with co-infections such as dengue or Japanese encephalitis. A rapid action team has been established to investigate the reasons behind the rise in chikungunya cases, which have increased from 1,702 cases in 2023 to 2,643 in 2024. Guidelines have been issued for appropriate specimen collection and analysis at national virology and medical institutions in Pune. Sample recommendations include two blood samples from patients displaying neurological symptoms like paralysis and hyperpigmentation for further investigation. The objective is to identify potential mutations through genomic sequencing, aiding in the detection of any neurotropic viruses present in chikungunya patients."Doctors in private hospitals in the city emphasized the importance of sequencing samples promptly once we have sufficient samples, particularly from patients in the intensive care unit or with severe symptoms," stated one medical professional. They observed a significant increase in chikungunya cases this year, with some patients requiring hospitalization to manage prolonged high fever and neurological issues for 10 to 15 days. This year, children have also been noticeably affected, as evidenced by an eight-month-old boy 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, highlighted that children born to mothers infected with chikungunya may exhibit hyperpigmentation as a symptom, noting that hyperpigmentation is a well-documented characteristic of the disease."