Known mutations of the novel coronavirus have not interfered with the progress of research into antibodies and vaccines of the virus, Zhou Qi, director of the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Zoology, said on March 6.

Chinese scientists have launched coordinated work to observe virus mutations while creating possible vaccines, he said.

"All research work is under control and we are actively monitoring the scale of mutations and will adjust our programs accordingly," he said, adding that more research and cases are needed on virus mutations.

A study published by Chinese scientists this week claims that the novel coronavirus has evolved into two major subtypes, including one that is believed to be more aggressive.