COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know this weekend
CBC News | Posted: March 27, 2021 1:26 PM | Last Updated: March 28, 2021
Cases on the rise in Quebec, and so is the number of administered vaccine doses
- Quebec reported 917 new cases on Sunday and two new deaths.
- Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 308,311 confirmed cases and 10,647 people have died.
- There are 480 people in hospital (a decrease of one), including 114 in intensive care (an increase of six).
- 45,745 doses of vaccine were administered in the last 24 hours for a total of 1,222,884 since Dec. 14.
For the first time in a month and a half, the province reported more than 1,000 new confirmed COVID-19 cases in a single day this weekend.
On Saturday, there were 1,009 new cases reported in Quebec. Sunday's number was slightly lower, at 917.
The recent increase in infections is taking place just as the government is easing restrictions in red zones.
Despite the uptick in cases, Premier François Legault said he has no immediate plans to impose new restrictions, and is asking Quebecers to follow the rules that are already in place.
He's also calling on those who celebrate Passover and Easter — which would typically involve large family gatherings — to be sure to heed public health guidelines.
Legault says the third wave is at our doorstep, and what stays open or gets shut down will depend on the pressure these new cases puts on the health-care system.
In a briefing by Quebec's public health research institute, experts warned the next few months will not be easy, with variants projected to account for more than half of new cases in the province by early April.
Legault said the variants are especially worrisome, and that's why it's essential everybody who is eligible to get vaccinated go and get their first shot as soon as possible.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- As Quebec's economic recovery gallops ahead, many risk being left behind.
- Potentially toxic masks distributed in schools and daycares in Quebec
- The government will face hurdles in its attempt to vaccinate nearly every Quebecer by June 24.
- Gyms and spas to reopen in COVID red zones but don't expect your spin class to resume.
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.
To reserve an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine, you can go on the online portal quebec.ca/covidvaccine. You can also call 1-877-644-4545.
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.