Quebec is still dealing with a triple wave of respiratory viruses. The National Director of Public Health, Dr.r Luc Boileau expects flu to peak in December and COVID-19 cases to rise in the coming weeks. However, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which has led to the hospitalization of many newborns, is losing ground.
“The month of December should be difficult for the flu, warned the Dr Boileau during a press conference in Montreal Monday to provide an update on the evolution of respiratory viruses in the province. More cases and hospitalizations are expected. »
Public Health also predicts an increased spread of COVID-19 in the coming weeks, due to variants BQ.1 and BQ1.1, now “mainly in Quebec.” A “worrying” situation, according to Dr Bolleau. “From our many leads we can see that we are on the upside, and one that should continue for a few more weeks,” he said. In all likelihood, December will be quite a difficult month for COVID. »
The national director of public health recommends that vulnerable populations, especially the elderly, be vaccinated against influenza and against COVID-19 if their last dose was five months ago. “People who have never had COVID and who are older and more vulnerable people, should have a reminder of their vaccination [contre la COVID-19] “, He insisted.
With the Christmas holidays approaching, Drr Boileau also encourages Quebecers to wear masks in “crowded places”. “It’s not just a COVID issue, it’s a flu issue, it’s a other virus issue […]it is a matter of good citizenship,” he said at a news conference.
He reminded people to stay home when they have a fever and to “avoid meeting” people when they have a cough, sore throat and stuffy nose. “We don’t go to office parties if we have symptoms,” she said.
The Dr Boileau recommends, following an infection, wearing a mask “ideally” for ten days, the duration of the infection for most viruses.
