Hong Kong health authorities have defended the practice of physically restraining some babies and children in coronavirus isolation wards after criticism built over the treatment of families under the city's strict anti-virus measures.

Despite being one of the most densely packed cities in the world, Hong Kong has kept infections low thanks to some of the most stringent quarantine measures in the world, recording some 11,000 infections and 200 deaths since the pandemic began, according to AFP.

But there has been growing pushback in recent weeks after an outbreak hit neighbourhoods favoured by wealthier — and more politically connected — white-collar locals and foreigners.

Complaints include parents being separated from their children, mothers ordered not to breastfeed babies and some infants tied to beds to stop them moving around. The pressure has led to a series of statements this week from health authorities defending their policies, including the use of restraints.