Quebec’s deputy premier is calling on the public to adhere to novel coronavirus restrictions such as social distancing and limited gatherings to prevent a second wave during the pandemic.
Geneviève Guilbault addressed an uptick of cases on Monday after the province reported between 109 and 166 new cases in each of the last seven days after having previously dipped below the 100 mark.
“Now, the situation is stable and under control,” she said. “We have seen an increase in positive cases but also a very significant increase in tests.”
She also said the majority of people are wearing masks in indoor public spaces as required as of July 18.
“Beyond a few isolated cases, Quebecers have massively adhered to wearing masks. It bodes well for the future.”
In Quebec, concerns have also been swirling around the reopening of bars, where cases have been reported in the past few weeks. However, Guilbault said only three bars in Montreal and a fourth in the Montérégie have had outbreaks.
Inspections by teams in bars have shown that most patrons and owners are following public health guidelines and tightened restrictions, she said.
“In all, the rules have been well respected,” she said, adding the government is continuing to closely monitor bars.
The province is, however, concerned about private gatherings and campgrounds as the two-week annual construction holiday is underway. Guilbault stressed the importance of limiting gatherings to a maximum of 10 people to prevent community transmission.
“Please respect the rules,” she said. “We all have the responsibility to protect others and protect ourselves.”
On Monday, authorities reported 150 new cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the virus. The health crisis has led to 57,616 infections in the province since it began in March.
There are two more deaths from the previous day, bringing the death toll to 5,657. Quebec continues to lead the country in fatalities and infections.
The number of hospitalizations stayed the same, with 251 patients as of Monday. Of them, there are 17 people in intensive care.
In Quebec, at least 50,190 people have recovered from the illness.
— With files from the Canadian Press
Comments