Montreal·The Latest

COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know on Tuesday

Quebec is limiting the number of gatherings over the holidays and the province reported more than 1,100 cases and 45 deaths on Tuesday. Here's what you need to know.

Quebec limits gatherings over holidays, records 45 deaths

Most of the province is entering a seven-week period of red-zone restrictions that will run until Jan. 11. (Ryan Remiorz/The Canadian Press)
  • Quebec reported 1,124 new cases of COVID-19 and 45 more deaths on Tuesday.
  • Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 134,330 confirmed cases and 6,887 people have died. Here's a guide to the numbers
  • There are 655 people in hospital (an increase of 21), including 96 in intensive care (a decrease of two).
  • Having trouble keeping track of what's now closed? Consult our list.
  • 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.

Premier François Legault has tightened the rules for the holidays and is now limiting Quebecers to two gatherings between Dec. 24 and Dec. 27.

Legault didn't put a cap on the number of gatherings when he unveiled the guidelines week.

In the last week, Quebec's daily case total has hovered between 1,100 and 1,200, with the Saguenay region still struggling to cope with a surge in cases and hospitalizations, and the northern regions of Chibougamau and Chapais now being designated as red zones.

All this comes with the province preparing for a COVID-19 vaccine campaign next year. But many questions remain about how it will be rolled out.

Legault said Tuesday he is waiting for the go-ahead from the federal government, which must approve vaccine candidates.

Top COVID-19 stories today

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