COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know Wednesday
CBC News | Posted: January 13, 2021 11:23 AM | Last Updated: January 13, 2021
Montreal tries to free up beds, announces vaccines for homeless people
- Quebec reported 2,071 new cases on Wednesday and 35 more deaths.
- Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 234,695 confirmed cases and 8,815 people have died. Here's a guide to the numbers.
- There are 1,516 people in hospital (an increase of 19), including 229 in intensive care (an increase of eight).
- 7,855 doses of vaccine were administered on Sunday, for a total of 107,365.
- 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 has more than 1,500 people in hospital because of COVID-19, according to the latest provincial figures.
In Montreal, surgeries are being cancelled and staff are being shifted from their usual assignments to help free up beds, said Sonia Bélanger, a senior official with the regional health authority that covers downtown Montreal.
The network is adding beds to accommodate non-COVID patients who may need to be moved out of hospitals and is also increasing intensive care capacity, Bélanger said.
But she said warned that staffing issues meant those additions can only do so much.
Montreal will also begin vaccinating homeless people, as early as this week, in an attempt to get outbreaks under control.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- Safety concerns remain as Quebec elementary school students return to class.
- Cases soar among Montreal's homeless population, and advocates say it's time for priority vaccination.
- Lost your sense of smell because of COVID-19? You may be able to re-train your nose.
- Air purifiers and filters aren't a "magic bullet", says the province, which won't put them in schools.
- When will you get a COVID-19 shot? Quebec provides more clarity on its vaccine schedule.
- Cree community moves into lockdown to contain outbreak of COVID-19.
- Here's a list of acceptable reasons for being out after curfew in Quebec.
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.