The Quebec government is calling on the province’s youth population to mobilize and unite after a recent uptick in COVID-19 cases among people between 20 and 29 years old.
Deputy Premier Geneviève Guilbault gave young Quebecers her vote of confidence in a press release Tuesday. There needs to be concrete action to control the situation, she said, and it starts with respecting health guidelines.
“You have in your hands the power to protect your loved ones by limiting the transmission of COVID-19. If you are in any doubt, don’t wait for public health to call and get tested. Do it for yourself, but also for your loved ones,” said Guilbault.
The government is looking to young people to encourage their friends to maintain physical distancing regulations and continue to wear a mask when it is required. Health Minister Christian Dubé explained that the situation is still fragile.
“It is important to get tested proactively, regardless of age, and to cooperate fully with public health teams when they conduct their investigations. Let us not let our guard down; rapid reaction time is our best ally,” he said, adding that a small transgression, though unintentional, can result in a large spread.
The press release asks that anyone, but young people in particular, who shows symptoms of COVID-19, or who participated in activities where health and safety measures are difficult to uphold, should consider taking a coronavirus test.
The provincial government also noted that screening is available in all regions of Québec, with or without an appointment. Tests can be done during the day or evening. For more information on how to proceed, the public is invited to call the info-coronavirus line at 1 877 644-4545.
The Estrie administrative region saw an increase of five confirmed cases on Tuesday, bringing the cumulative total to 1,027 since the start of the pandemic. At the moment none of those sick with the virus in the region are hospitalized.
Across the province, the total number of confirmed cases climbed by 169 , with two new deaths. Hospitalisations decreased by seven to 193 and one more person was admitted to intensive care.
