KUALA LUMPUR: The Institute of Medical Research (IMR) has detected a D614G-type mutation of Covid-19 in the culture tests of samples taken from three cases linked to the Sivagangga cluster, and one from the Ulu Tiram Cluster.
In a Facebook post, Health director-general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah said the D614G mutation was first detected in July, and studies would likely reveal that any existing vaccine is ineffective against the mutation.
"It was found to be 10 times likely to infect other individuals and easier to spread by super spreader individuals.
"So far, these two clusters are under control due to various public health controls in the field.
"Nonetheless, the public must stay vigilant and careful as Covid-19 with the D614G mutation has been detected in Malaysia.
"Continue to take preventive measures and adhere to the standard operating procedures as stipulated, such as physical distancing, self-hygiene practices, and wear a mask when in public places," he said.
He added that the test by IMR was preliminary, and that there are several follow-up tests being conducted on other cases, including index cases of the two clusters.
Dr Noor Hisham stressed that the Covid-19 situation in the country is under control and that the Health Ministry, along with other agencies, are still making efforts to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
"Cooperation from the public is very much needed, so that we can jointly curb the transmission of Covid-19 infection from all types of mutations," he added.