COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know Wednesday
CBC News | Posted: December 16, 2020 11:23 AM | Last Updated: December 16, 2020
Quebec reports more than 40 deaths one day after lockdown measures announced
- Quebec reported 1,897 new cases of COVID-19 and 43 more deaths on Wednesday.
- Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 169,173 confirmed cases and 7,613 people have died. One previously recorded death is no longer attributed to COVID-19. Here's a guide to the numbers.
- There are 975 people in hospital (an increase of 16) including 128 in intensive care (an increase of three).
- 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 reported 43 more deaths and nearly 1,900 COVID-19 cases on Wednesday, continuing a worrisome trend that has drastically altered the Legault government's approach in the last month.
In mid-November, the government announced guidelines for Christmas gatherings of up to 10 people. Those plans have since been scrapped.
Now, with nearly 1,000 people in hospital because of the virus, the province will soon be subject to the most severe COVID-19 restrictions since last spring's shutdown.
In an effort to stop the virus's spread, the government unveiled a series of new restrictions and guidelines on Tuesday, including shutting down most retailers between Dec. 25 and Jan. 11.
Elementary school students will also stay one extra week at home, with teachers offering online learning between Jan 4. and Jan 11.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- Quebec's new lockdown is a harsh reminder that the COVID-19 end game is still several moves away.
- With COVID-19 vaccination underway, Quebec needs a better testing strategy to get virus under control.
- The first doses of Pfizer-BioNTech's COVID-19 vaccine have arrived in Canada.
- According to Quebec's ombudsman, the province failed to get CHSLDs ready for a pandemic.
- There are new rules to determine who receives life-saving care, if health-care system is overwhelmed.
- What we know about Quebec's vaccine plans and what it means for 2021.
- Postponing medical procedures to make room for COVID patients comes at a cost, doctors warn.
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.