During a virtual press conference this afternoon, Quebec Health Minister Christian Dubé announced a new wave of closures due to a massive spike in daily COVID-19 cases in the province.
According to Dubé, primary and secondary schools will be shut down as of tomorrow, and several public settings including movie theatres, gyms, spas, bars, taverns, night clubs, and casinos will also be closing as of 5 p.m. today. In addition to this, working from home is now mandatory for those who can, and spectators will not be able to attend any sporting events, both amateur and professional. Quebec restaurant hours, meanwhile, will be limited to 5–10 p.m. Some establishments, such as hair salons and personal care services, can remain open under strict measures. Daycares will also remain open.
Health officials have not changed the limit for gatherings in private homes, which remains at 10 people until further notice.
"The situation is critical," Quebec health minister Christian Dubé said at a press conference at 1 p.m. Schools will be closed until at least Jan. 10.
On Monday, the province announced 4,571 more people tested positive for COVID-19 with nearly 400 people now hospitalized because of the virus.
As of noon, 188,000 people had booked vaccine appointments today alone as the province opened appointments for people age 65 and older, he added.
“Bravo, we’re going in the right direction,” Dubé said.
