The rate of infection with the Omicron variant of COVID-19 amongst children in Yangon is on the rise, according to a pediatrician’s social media page.

He said that the number of infections in children increased in February. They had a persistent fever, runny nose, and cough but no other alarming symptoms.

"Children should be as well protected as adults. The Omicron variant is also more contagious in children than in the previous COVID-19 Delta virus. Schools have reopened now and so, children are more likely to become infected. Schools should raise awareness about this," Dr Nightingale told Mizzima.

Currently, the rate of COVID-19 infection is increasing in children between the ages of 6 months to 12 years. It is leading to chronic illness, body chills, unconsciousness, vomiting, diarrhea and trouble breathing.

COVID-19 treatment centres have reopened to offer treatment following the COVID-19 outbreak in February, after the Omicron variant had emerged.

The Yangon Regional government, under the junta, has three COVID-19 treatment centres in Insein, Mayangone and Hlaing townships, each with a capacity of 400 to over 600 people.