The recent surge in chikungunya cases in Mumbai and Pune has prompted the Maharashtra state health department to investigate the possibility of a new variant causing unusual symptoms. With a significant increase in reported cases compared to the previous year, authorities are concerned about the changing nature of the disease.
The state has formed a task force to study the factors contributing to the rise in chikungunya cases, including the potential for a genetic mutation in the virus. Genomic sequencing of positive samples will be conducted to analyze the virus’s genetic makeup and identify any changes. In addition to the increase in cases, there have been reports of unusual symptoms such as neurological issues and hyperpigmentation. While these symptoms are rare, they have been observed in the past, particularly in patients with co-infections like dengue, Zika, or Japanese encephalitis.
The health department has issued guidelines for collecting and analyzing samples from patients exhibiting neurological symptoms. These samples will be sent to the National Institute of Virology and B J Medical College in Pune for further study. The rise in chikungunya cases poses a significant health challenge for the region. The state health department’s proactive approach, including the formation of a task force and the conduct of genomic sequencing, is essential in understanding the changing nature of the disease and developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.
