The Myanmar authorities say the number of cases of COVID-19 have risen to 52,706 with the total number of deaths up to 1,237.

The authorities have stepped up testing for the virus and brought in health and safety measures including Stay at Home orders, social distancing, mask use and the use of quarantine centres.

During the early stages of the pandemic, Myanmar appeared to be doing well. But over the last couple of months the number of cases has risen, due largely to increased testing, and a higher death toll has been reported.