COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know on Friday
CBC News | Posted: October 16, 2020 11:02 AM | Last Updated: October 16, 2020
Province calls on Quebecers to further reduce their contacts in hopes of reaching plateau
- Quebec reported 1,055 new cases of COVID-19 and 13 more deaths on Friday, one of which occurred in the last 24 hours. Another death was removed from the total because it was no longer deemed related to COVID-19. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 91,018 confirmed cases in the province and 6,018 people have died.
- There are 507 people in hospital (an increase of 14), including 87 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.
Health Minister Christian Dubé says two new studies are evidence the restrictions put in place earlier this month are working. Because of that, he said, some of the restrictions will remain in place after Oct. 28.
"The next two weeks will be critical," said Dubé. "Do we want to eliminate some of the measures? The answer is 'yes', but we also don't want to be yo-yoing."
A study released Friday by Quebec's public health research institute, the INSPQ, suggests the virus will keep spreading if Quebecers don't further reduce their contacts.
According to one model presented in the study, if the population reduces its contacts by another 25 per cent, by maintaining a two-metre distance in public spaces, wearing masks and limiting gatherings, the spread of the virus is likely to plateau and even decline.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- Quebec's ski resorts will be able to open this winter with different restrictions depending on location.
- Quebec is injecting $70 million into sports organizations — many of which were halted by the pandemic.
- If you're worried about getting on a packed bus or metro, there is now an app for that.
- Social media companies are doing a clean-up of conspiracy-promoting accounts, including this popular Quebec one.
- How rapid tests work and why timing is critical.
- COVID-19 is changing the way men and women split the risk in the workplace.
- 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.