COVID-19: Follow the Recommendations

• Wash your hands often with soap under warm running water for at least 20 seconds.
• Use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available.
• Practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette:
  • Cover your mouth and nose with your arm to reduce the spread of germs.
  • If you use a tissue, dispose of it as soon as possible and wash your hands afterwards.
• If you are sick, avoid contact with more vulnerable people, including older adults and people who have a chronic disease. For example, avoid visiting people in hospital, people living in residential and long-term care centres or in private residences.
• Avoid direct contact when you greet someone, such as shaking hands, and use alternative ways to greet people.

Every individual has their part to play to reduce the risk of spreading viruses.

Masks are not an effective means of protection for the general public. Their use is indicated more for patients who are suspected of being infected and for the health professionals who are providing care for them. You can watch the message from Dr. Horacio Arruda  (French only), Québec Director of Public Health, on the topic.

If you are worried or anxious about the coronavirus, you can contact the toll-free line 1 877 644-4545. To help you minimize the repercussions of these kinds of reactions on your life, see the Stress, Anxiety and Depression Associated With the Coronavirus COVID-19 Disease.

Avoid non-essential travel from one region to another or from one city to another

All Quebecers are being asked to avoid travelling from one region to another or from one city to another, except where necessary. Such travel should be confined to trips for medical reasons and work when teleworking is not possible.

Voluntary self-isolation  for 14days is recommended for anyone returning from abroad on or after March12,2020. Returning travellers must be vigilant and monitor themselves for symptoms.

Businesses that deliver goods from abroad in Québec do not have to ask their employees to temporarily self-isolate.

Self-isolation  is mandatory for all public service employees and health care, education and daycare workers, both private and public, returning from abroad. Public sector employees will continue their treatment during the isolation period.

Individuals who are returning from outside Canada and are in self-isolation at home must abide by the advice indicated below.

Stay at home

• Do not go to school, to work, to a childcare centre or a day care centre or to any other public space.
• Do not use public transport.
• Postpone all non-urgent medical appointments.
• Do not receive visitors at home.

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