COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know on Wednesday
Province reports 1,700 cases on Wednesday, as hospitalizations continue to mount
- Quebec reported 1,728 new cases of COVID-19 and 37 more deaths on Wednesday.
- Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 156,468 confirmed cases and 7,349 people have died. One death has been removed from the total because the person didn't end up having COVID. Here's a guide to the numbers.
- There are 844 people in hospital (an increase of nine) including 121 in intensive care (an increase of seven).
- CBC Montreal is collecting stories from Quebecers who have recovered from COVID-19. If you would like to share your experience, please get in touch.
With the number of cases and hospitalizations on the rise, Premier François Legault says the police will be cracking down on those who flout COVID-19 health and safety rules in the coming days.
The province reported more than 1,700 cases on Wednesday, and more than 800 people are now being treated in hospital with the virus.
The province is once again cutting back on non-urgent surgeries and procedures to free up beds and staff for the expected influx of COVID-19 patients, but experts say these delays could lead to long-term consequences.
The first batch of Pfizer's vaccine is expected to start rolling out in Quebec early next week, after it was approved by Health Canada on Wednesday. If all goes as planned, more than half a million Quebecers could be vaccinated by the end of March.
Patients in CHSLDs, which accounted for the vast majority of deaths related to COVID-19, will be the first to get the Pfizer vaccine in the province.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- What we know about Quebec's vaccine plans and what it means for 2021.
- Postponing medical procedures to make room for COVID patients comes at a cost, doctors warn.
- Maimonides, struggling to contain COVID-19, prepares to receive first doses of vaccine in Quebec.
- Head of Quebec's vaccination campaign stepping down for health reasons.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
- Fever.
- New or worsening cough.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Sudden loss of smell without a stuffy nose.
- Gastrointestinal issues (such as nausea, diarrhea).
If you think you may have COVID-19, the government asks that you call 1‑877‑644‑4545 to schedule an appointment at a screening clinic.
Quebec government reminders for preventing the spread of COVID-19:
- Wash your hands frequently.
- Avoid touching your face.
- Wear a mask or face covering when physical distancing is not possible. Wearing a mask is mandatory in enclosed public spaces across the province.
- Stay at least two metres away from other people as much as possible.
- Self-isolate for 14 days after returning from a stay outside the country.
You can find information on COVID-19 in the province here and information on the situation in Montreal here.
