COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know on Wednesday
Bars, restaurant dining rooms will close at midnight for 28 days in red zones
- Quebec reported 838 new cases of COVID-19 but no new deaths Wednesday. One death that occurred between Sept. 23 and 28 was however added to the total. Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 74,288 confirmed cases and 5,834 people have died.
- There are 262 people in hospital (an increase of 15), including 43 in intensive care (an increase of two).
Premier François Legault and Public Security Minister Geneviève Guilbault will hold a news conference at 5 p.m. ET alongside Dr. Horacio Arruda, Quebec's public health director, to detail the specifics of how a series of new anti-COVID measures will be enforced in red zones.
Those measures include limits on gatherings and the closing of bars and theatres. The government is also expected to address inter-regional travel and public protests. The event will be streamed live on CBC.ca, and broadcast via the CBC Montreal and CBC Quebec Facebook pages.
Today is the last day many Quebecers will be able to go to a bar or restaurant for four weeks, as restrictions in the province's high-risk areas begin at midnight.
Those businesses, along with cinemas, museums and libraries in the greater Montreal area, Quebec City and the Chaudière-Appalaches, will close until Oct. 28. A ban on parties and other gatherings is also in effect as of midnight.
Restaurants will be allowed to continue operating, but only for takeout and delivery.
Top COVID-19 stories today
- Quebec abandons opposition to federal COVID app, will sign on in days.
- As Montreal turns red, city officials urge young people to obey the rules.
- What Melbourne, Australia can teach Quebec about the second wave.
- How Quebec went from COVID-19 success story to hot spot in 30 days.
- Why are Montreal and Quebec City at the highest COVID-19 alert level.
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.
You can find information on COVID-19 in the province here and information on the situation in Montreal here.
