MIRI – There are at least two new coronavirus variants spreading in Sarawak, including at longhouses linked to the Pasai cluster in the state’s central region.
Following three variants striking alarm across the world – in the United Kingdom, Brazil and South Africa – Malaysian health authorities are now grappling to contain the Sarawak strains.
The Institute of Health and Community Medicine at Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (Unimas), in its latest report, confirmed the “B1-like” and “B1.470” strains.
Other “B” variants found elsewhere, like in South Africa, the UK, Brazil, New York in the United States, and Nigeria, have seen a much higher infectivity rate than the original Covid-19 strain, said the institute.
“In Sarawak, the B1-like variant is found in Sibu and at longhouses linked to the Pasai cluster. The B1.470 variant is found in Kuching and Sri Aman.
“We have laboratory-confirmed evidence of samples from Covid-19-positive individuals indicating the presence of these B variants. They were found at the longhouses and in other locations linked to the Pasai cluster.”
However, it said, there has yet to be evidence that the new variants will render current Covid-19 vaccines less effective.
It has advised Sarawakians to adhere to the standard operating procedures, such as wearing masks, maintaining social distancing and practising good hygiene, even after they get vaccinated.
Unimas has submitted the institute’s latest findings to the state Disaster Management Committee.
The report was prepared by its director, Prof Dr David Perera.
Yesterday, state Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Dr Sim Kui Hian said the coronavirus in Sarawak is mutating, and three million residents have been told to exercise extreme caution.
“A more severe and lethal variant is appearing.”
In his social media updates and discussions, he said Unimas has disclosed details of the latest developments.
Dr Sim said Prof Dr David and his team’s research on the pandemic in the state has found the virus mutations to be profound in Sibu and Kuching.
“The only way to prevent the variants from getting worse before everyone is vaccinated is to stop the spread and transmission.”
Unnecessary travel must be avoided, he said.
“Do not take off your masks when in public.”
As of yesterday, Sarawak has recorded 89 Covid-19 deaths and more than 12,000 infections. – The Vibes, March 14, 2021
