All Quebec schools, daycares, CEGEPS and universities will be closed as of Friday for at least the next two weeks, as announced by the provincial government today. These closures are a direct response to the threat of coronavirus, according to the Montreal Gazette.
Francois Legault, Quebec’s Premier, made the announcement Friday morning from Quebec City. He also announced that a new coronavirus information hotline has been set up to replace 811, which has been nearly impossible to get through to with so many people seeking information and assistance.
The provincial government is now asking people to call its new information number 1-877-644-4545 and to get tested for coronavirus as soon as they believe they may be feeling symptoms.
Special daycare personnel will be brought in for parents who work in the health professions and other essential services, so that they may continue working to serve public need.
Legault followed suit of many city officials in North America in issuing an order that no indoor gathering could surpass 250 people anywhere in the province of Quebec until further notice. This has led to the prompt cancelling of many public events.
As of Friday, the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Quebec is 17. While two remain in hospital, the remainder are in self-isolation.