With cases of COVID-19 on the rise and the Delta variant spreading across the province, Quebec Premier Francois Legault has now announced that the government will require all healthcare workers to be fully vaccinated.
“I’m calling on all Quebecers to make an appointment or go to walk-in clinics,” said Legault. “If ever some people are worried about the side effects, you have to know it’s very clear, the risk of COVID-19 is much worse than any potential side effects.”
The government says they haven’t decided what could happen to healthcare workers who refuse the vaccine but said they are looking into “administrative measures” that will be decided in the coming weeks.
Legault also announced that for CEGEP and university students, masks will be required at all times, even when students are seated in class. He also said that wearing masks might be mandated in high schools, elementary schools, and perhaps even daycares in some regions. The decision he said, will be based on the advice of public health in the coming weeks and that Education Minister Jean-François Roberge will deliver an update before the new school year begins.
“Summer isn’t over and Quebecers don’t want to hear about the pandemic but the virus doesn’t take a vacation,” Legault told reporters in Quebec City.
“Quebecers won’t be spared by the fourth wave.”
Today’s announcement comes shortly after meetings between Legault, the health ministry and public health (INSPQ), who predict an increase in new daily cases in the coming weeks.
