COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know this weekend
CBC News | Posted: October 17, 2020 11:58 AM | Last Updated: October 18, 2020
Health minister expresses concern about growing number of hospitalizations
- Quebec reported 1,094 new cases of COVID-19 and six more deaths on Sunday. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 93,391 confirmed cases in the province and 6,038 people have died.
- There are 527 people in hospital (an increase of 10), including 88 in intensive care (an increase of three). 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.
Quebec registered more than 2,300 new cases of COVID-19 over the weekend, including a record high of 1,279 new cases on Saturday.
Several regions in Quebec have seen substantial increases in recent days, including Mauricie, Quebec City and the Eastern Townships.
It's been just over two weeks since Premier François Legault imposed widespread restrictions to slow the spread of COVID-19. Initially he said the restrictions would be in place for 28 days, but he has since acknowledged some will remain beyond Oct. 28.
In his daily statement on Sunday, Health Minister Christian Dubé drew attention to the growing number of hospitalizations in the province.
"Despite the stabilization in the number of cases over the last two weeks, hospitalizations continue to [increase]," Dubé said on Twitter.
"We have to break the wave to slow this [increase] and protect vulnerable people as well as our health system."
A study released Friday by Quebec's public health research institute indicated 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 a further 25 per cent, for example 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
- As the coronavirus cases mount in Quebec's regions, some hospitals are reaching a tipping point.
- 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 affected 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.
- 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.