COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know on Wednesday
Montreal public health director asks public to be vigilant at small social gatherings
- Quebec reported 180 new cases of COVID-19 and one death that occurred before the last 24 hours on Wednesday. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 64,056 confirmed cases and 5,771 people have died.
- There are 113 people in hospital (an increase of eight), including 14 in intensive care (a decrease of one). 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.
Montreal's director of public health says small social gatherings among friends and family are among her biggest concerns as she observes an increase in the spread of the virus in recent weeks.
Dr. Mylène Drouin said at a news conference Wednesday that if the trend continues, the city could move from "green" to "yellow," which is considered the early warning stage under a new provincial alert system.
A "yellow" designation would mean an increase in enforcement of public health guidelines and, potentially, an increase in fines.
"Those small outbreaks are the source of cases that will go in schools and into elderly homes, where the result will be more dramatic," she said.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- Eight schools and centres on Montreal's South Shore have reported positive COVID-19 cases, with three reporting multiple cases.
- Quebec unveils colour-coded regional alert system as cases climb.
- A judge has decided not to temporarily loosen restrictions on who can access distance learning in Quebec.
- Three cabinet ministers have tested negative for COVID-19 after coming into contact with a confirmed case. Longueuil Mayor Sylvie Parent tested positive for the virus on Sunday, causing several Quebec politicians who had recently met with her to self-isolate as a preventive measure.
- Experts sound the alarm as the number of new cases creeps upward.
- What the level of COVID-19 immunity in Canada could mean for the vaccine hunt.
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.
- 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.
