Myanmar: Coronavirus-disease related restrictions remain in place in parts of Yangon Region as of Jan. 16 /update 7

Event

Officials continue to enforce restrictions in parts of the Yangon Region as of Jan. 16 as part of ongoing efforts to stem the spread of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Stay-home orders remain in effect in areas of the townships of Kungyangon, Seikkyi Khanaungto, and Twante. Exemptions to the orders are in place for individuals with emergency and essential purposes and people working in select sectors, such as medical, food establishments, manufacturing of essential products, banks, and financial services. Authorities also allow garment factories and construction work to operate, provided the companies pass official inspection, and enforce precautions such as distancing measures; the government attributed the policy to economic considerations. Government employees in affected townships must rotate between working on-site and at home every two weeks. Authorities allow only one person from each household to leave home to obtain supplies, while only two people per household can visit medical facilities.

Wearing a facemask is compulsory when in public throughout Yangon Region. Nationwide measures, including a 0001-0400 nightly curfew, remain in effect. Some local authorities in other parts of Myanmar may require arrivals from Yangon to undergo stricter health checks and quarantine at their residence or government-designated facilities. Heightened security, as well as transport and business disruptions, are likely to continue. Officials may enact new measures or expand the curbs if any additional outbreaks occur in the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Remain polite and cooperative if stopped by security personnel for checks. Avoid crowded areas. Stock up on essential supplies as a precaution. Confirm all travel reservations; consider deferring nonessential travel to and from the affected townships. Make allowances for likely travel restrictions if operating in the region. Abide by national and local health and safety measures. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Emphasize basic health precautions, especially frequent handwashing with soap and water, or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable. Practice good coughing/sneezing etiquette (i.e., covering coughs and sneezes with disposable tissue, maintaining distance from others, and washing hands). There is no evidence that the influenza vaccine, antibiotics, or antiviral medications will prevent this disease, highlighting the importance of diligent basic health precautions.

Resources

State COVID-19 Portal (Burmese)
World Health Organization (WHO)