COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know on Thursday
Health Minister Christian Dubé may shut down bars if they prove to be cause of increase in cases
- Quebec has 57,001 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 5,646 people have died, an increase of 142 cases and 10 deaths. The total includes one death from before July 8.
- There are 277 people in hospital (a decrease of eight), including 20 in intensive care (no change from a day earlier). Here's a guide to the numbers.
- Montreal public health is asking anyone who has been to a bar this month to get tested for COVID-19. So far, 45 cases have been linked to 14 bars in the city.
- 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.
- Having trouble keeping track of what has reopened? Consult our list.
Health Minister Christian Dubé says if the increase in cases can be proven to be linked to bars being reopened, he will not hesitate to take action in the next few days. The province has said it would shut down bars if necessary.
Dubé spoke to reporters in a Montreal parking lot where people were lined up to be tested behind him.
Quebec has been under pressure to provide more testing capacity as Montreal bar-goers have been lining up for hours all week to get tested.
New COVID-19 testing sites are opening in Montreal today and Friday.
Public health officials in Montreal have been asking the government to increase the number of testing sites after telling everyone who'd been in a bar in the city since July 1 to get tested.
So far, 45 cases have been linked to 14 bars.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- Some Quebec workers will be allowed to return to their offices as of Saturday.
- With a shot at the Stanley Cup, the Habs happily adjust to COVID-19 protocols.
- The public health director for Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine is asking visitors to wear masks and respect physical distancing.
- Watch: Family members and staff at CHSLD Sainte-Dorothée in Laval laid 101 flowers Wednesday, in honour of the seniors who lost their lives in the long-term care home hit hardest by COVID-19.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
- Fever.
- New or worsening cough.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Sudden loss of smell without a stuffy nose.
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.
- It is recommended to wear a mask or face covering, especially when physical distancing is not possible, in an indoor public space and on public transit.
- 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.
