Gatherings and trips between regions are still a source of concern in Bas-Saint-Laurent. The regional public health department therefore called on the population to remain cautious about complying with the measures in force.
The announcement of a return to the orange zone on February 8 has been made possible thanks to the sustained improvement in the epidemiological situation in recent weeks. Without counting the sustained efforts of the population concerning the respect of sanitary measures, according to the direction of public health.
“We have regained control of transmission in both our cases and our outbreaks. For some time now, we had an epidemiological situation which was ‘not perfect’ but which has greatly improved, ”explained Dr Sylvain Leduc, director of public health.
Dr Leduc said he was very satisfied with the announcements and very happy with this change of level. “We therefore allow ourselves to appreciate this news, because it is an announcement that feels good. It reflects efforts that have yielded results and the anticipation of a return to a more normal life. “
He allows himself to repeat the new measures announced by the Legault government, to come into force from February 8. First of all, the curfew is maintained but now ends at 9:30 p.m. Then there will be the eagerly awaited reopening of a few non-essential businesses, such as personal and beauty care businesses, restaurants, or sports and leisure activities.
Certain measures will still have to be respected: at the restaurant, only two adults per table will be accepted, but their “reopening is still welcome”, according to Leduc. Outdoor activities should be restricted to a group of eight people. Indoor sports activities, including gyms, are becoming accessible again, but only for people who are alone, in pairs or in the same family circle. Groups will not be accepted.
Dr Sylvain Leduc recalls at the same time that gatherings in private homes remain prohibited. “The place where the transition is highest is homes and private living environments,” he said. People living alone can visit a bubble.
He adds and says: “the decrease in the number of cases does not mean the disappearance of the virus. There are still cases in the region and it proves that the virus still exists. We take control of isolated cases, and all the measures limit the number of contacts. […] But we will have to remain immensely vigilant. It is not a disappearance of the virus. “
The public health directorate also confirms that there will be no roadside checks, even during the spring break. Travel between regions is not prohibited, but is not recommended. With the curfew in place, people will be less tempted to gather until late at night in the orange zone. One concern remains, that of the movement of snowmobiles, where meetings can be held in relays.
The orange level has been changed since the fall, since certain activities will not be eligible. According to Mr. Leduc, certain details for other sports or extracurricular activities will be sent shortly. “I understand that a few questions remain unanswered. We hope to maintain this excellent record over the next few weeks, which will make it possible to balance the risks so that we can finally resume certain activities, ”concluded Leduc.
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