COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know this weekend
CBC News | Posted: November 21, 2020 12:53 PM | Last Updated: November 22, 2020
The pandemic continues to rage in the province's regions, the latest flare-up is in a Quebec City convent.
- Quebec reported 1,154 new cases of COVID-19 and 23 more deaths on Sunday.
- Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 132,042 confirmed cases and 6,829 people have died. Here's a guide to the numbers.
- There are 642 people in hospital (a decrease of four), including 103 in intensive care (an increase of four).
- 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 coronavirus pandemic continues to flare up in the province's regions.
The latest major outbreak is at a Quebec City convent, where 39 nuns and 43 workers at the Soeurs de la Charité in suburban Beauport have tested positive for COVID-19.
Other regions like the Saguenay and Lanaudière continue to be battered by community transmission, days after Premier François Legault proposed a "moral contract" with Quebecers.
The province will lift the ban on indoor gatherings for four days, between Dec. 24 and Dec. 27, allowing family and friends to get together to celebrate Christmas in groups of up to 10 people, regardless of how many households they come from.
In exchange, the government is hoping Quebecers will voluntarily self-isolate for a week before and after that four-day period, in order to limit a surge in COVID-19 cases.
The winter break for schools will not be extended and classes will resume on Jan. 4, with elementary students heading back to in-person classes, and high school students beginning a week of online learning before returning to classrooms the following week.
Public Health Director Dr. Horacio Arruda made it clear that the holiday plan depends on cases and hospitalizations remaining stable, and Quebecers continuing to follow public health guidelines.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- Quebecers can have some holiday cheer if they quarantine before and after Christmas.
- Public health officials are dealing with a major COVID-19 outbreak at a Quebec City convent.
- Quebec opens the door to gatherings of up to 250 people in red zones.
- Most Canadians could be vaccinated against COVID-19 by the end of next year.
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.