COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know on Tuesday
Dr. Horacio Arruda says province is developing revised policy on masks
- Quebec reported 871 new cases of COVID-19 and 34 more deaths on Tuesday, five of which were in the past 24 hours. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 108,889 confirmed cases and 6,317 people have died.
- There are 526 people in hospital (an increase of 27), including 85 in intensive care (an increase of four). Here's a guide to the numbers.
- Having trouble keeping track of what's now closed? Consult our list.
- 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.
The Quebec government says some regions, including Quebec City and Montreal, are improving while others, such as Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean, Mauricie and Lanaudière, are seeing an increase in the spread of the coronavirus.
Health Minister Christian Dubé said Tuesday if the regions outside Quebec's two largest cities can better contain COVID-19, the province will be in good shape.
Dr. Horacio Arruda, the province's public health director, also said the province is looking at its own specific recommendations for masks, after Canada's Public Health Agency recommended Canadians choose three-layer non-medical masks with a filter layer to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- Here's everything you need to know about getting the flu shot this year.
- The pandemic has forced many Quebecers into difficult choices, including a teacher who was forced to take an unpaid year off to care for her immunocompromised child.
- The province's public health director says COVID-19 vaccinations in Quebec could begin in early 2021.
- Here's how the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region has largely dodged the second COVID-19 wave.
- Here's what Quebec teachers are doing to get the most out of their stressed and anxious students.
- How rapid tests work and why timing is critical.
- Quebec doctors treating COVID-19 have new techniques and treatments but there is still some unknown.
- This is what you can and can't do while living in a red zone.
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.