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COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know Wednesday

The Legault government's decision to reopen movie theatres, sports arenas and indoor pools across the province is being questioned by public health experts and some business owners. Here's what you need to know.

Public health experts, business owners question March break reopening

CBC News ·
Quebecers will soon have a few more activities available to them, but the premier warns that gatherings in private homes are still banned, and police will be on the lookout for rule breakers. (Graham Hughes/The Canadian Press)
  • Quebec reported 800 new cases on Wednesday and 14 deaths. Two previously reported deaths are no longer attributed to COVID-19. 
  • Since the start of the pandemic, there have been 278,987 confirmed cases and 10,258 people have died.
  • There are 766 people in hospital (a decrease of five), including 130 in intensive care (a decrease of four).
  • 1,714 doses of vaccine were administered. A total of 299,673 doses have been administered since Dec. 14.
  • Businesses and other services are gradually reopening. Here's a list of what is open, and what is still closed.

On Tuesday, François Legault announced the reopening of movie theatres, sports arenas and indoor pools across the province starting Feb. 26.

That decision is being questioned by public health experts — who say now is not the time to begin relaxing restrictions, with a third wave a possible consequence.

And gym and spa owners, among others, are confused by the government's logic that means their businesses must remain closed while others can open up.

Meanwhile, as vaccine shipments pick up, the government needs to be able to deliver more doses, but it also needs space to do it.

That's where the mostly dormant Olympic Stadium comes in.

The Big O is one of three east-end locations that will be used as part of Quebec's mass vaccination campaign, Radio-Canada has learned.

If you have been feeling isolated, we've compiled some ways to help cope as part of a special CBC Quebec project called Out of the Dark: Real Talk on Mental Health.

Out of the Dark: Small steps

CBC News Montreal

3 months ago
1:00
It can be tough to know at what point struggling with sadness becomes more than you can bear on your own. 1:00

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. 

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