COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know Monday
Quebec has suspended AstraZeneca vaccine for people under 55
- Quebec reported 891 new cases on Monday and five new deaths.
- Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 309,202 confirmed cases and 10,651 people have died.
- There are 477 people in hospital (a decrease of three), including 120 in intensive care (an increase of six).
- 38,801 doses of vaccine were administered in the last 24 hours for a total of 1,261,855 since Dec. 14.
Quebec has suspended the use of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for people under the age of 55 out of caution, following updated guidelines from the National Advisory Committee on Immunization.
The new national guidelines, reported by CBC News, were prompted by reports of rare blood clots in some immunized patients.
The decision comes as the province enters a third wave of the pandemic, Health Minister Christian Dubé acknowledged earlier in the day.
He said the government had anticipated another rise in cases, but that the decision to have students in grades 9 to 11 return full-time, as well as re-open gyms and other fitness centres, was made with people's well being in mind.
"It's a balance," he said.
Since March 12, there have been more than 500 suspected or confirmed cases of the variants in Quebec schools.
The English Montreal School Board is among the school boards taking a more cautious approach — only students in Grade 9 will fully return to class today. Grades 10 and 11 will go back when the school board decides it's safe.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- Quebec suspends giving doses of AstraZeneca to those under 55, though no issues reported in Canada
- Quebec has entered 3rd wave of COVID-19, health minister says
- Potentially toxic masks were distributed in schools and daycares in Quebec
- VIDEO | How risky is the return to class for Quebec high school students?
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.
To reserve an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine, you can go on the online portal quebec.ca/covidvaccine. You can also call 1-877-644-4545.
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.
