COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know on Thursday
Provincial health authorities expected to announce new regulations on bars this afternoon
- Quebec has 56,216 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 5,609 people have died, an increase of 137 cases and two deaths from a day earlier. Four deaths from before July 1 were also reported Wednesday.
- There are 308 people in hospital (a decrease of 23), including 27 in intensive care (no change from a day earlier). Here's a guide to the numbers.
- 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.
- Having trouble keeping track of what has reopened? Consult our list.
Bars in Quebec have to follow new rules as of Friday, following a flare-up of COVID-19 infections on Montreal's South Shore.
Those regulations include an earlier closing time for the province's bars. Last call for alcoholic beverages will be midnight instead of 3 a.m., and bars must be cleared of customers by 1 a.m. Bars will be required to operate at a reduced capacity of no more than 50 per cent, and customers must remain seated at tables. No dancing is allowed.
Quebec announced it would crack down on venues earlier this week, after several young people in the Montérégie tested positive for COVID-19, some of whom had visited a local bar.
A mobile site is set up at the Centre Roger-Tougas in the town of Mercier from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mercier residents do not need an appointment to go.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- A spike in COVID-19 cases on Montreal's South Shore has some businesses closing temporarily as health authorities track the outbreak. A mobile testing clinic will be set up at a community centre in Mercier today.
- Via Rail is cutting about 1,000 jobs amid struggles over the pandemic.
- How risky is a manicure? Your COVID-19 questions answered.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
- Fever.
- New or worsening cough.
- Difficulty breathing.
- Sudden loss of smell without a stuffy nose.
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.
- It is recommended to wear a mask or face covering, especially when physical distancing is not possible, in an indoor public space and on public transit.
- 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.
