---COVID-19 Update:  cases still rising despite Code Red restrictions

The number of COVID-19 cases in the Outaouais reached 2,264 on October 26, marking a rise of 15 from the previous day. According to the Centre intégré de la santé et des services sociaux de l’Outaouais (CISSSO), 1,985 people had recovered from the virus on the same date.

Along with 239 active cases in the community, CISSSO noted that 40 people have died so far. Out of 18 people hospitalized, 12 required intensive care.

Attributing 1,899 cases to Gatineau’s urban core, the MRC de Papineau had the second most in the region with 193, followed by the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais with 101, the MRC de Pontiac with 26, and the MRC de la Vallée-de-la-Gatineau with 22 cases. It added that the origin of 23 cases had yet to be determined. 

Having experienced outbreaks in more than a dozen of its establishments, CISSSO noted that six are currently affected. Among those, include Gatineau’s Résidence Cité-Jardin (37 active cases, five deaths), Aylmer’s CHSLD La Renaissance (four cases), and the Gatineau Hospital (three cases, three deaths). Over the previous week, CISSSO said it administered a daily average of 381 coronavirus screening tests.

Those interested in getting tested can set up an appointment by calling 1-877-644-4545 or 1-819-644-4545.

Still in the red zone, the provincial government’s maximum emergency safety measures are to be enforced. That includes wearing a face covering in public spaces and physical distancing. Private indoor or outdoor gatherings are prohibited for time being. Except for a single person from a different address visiting another single person, caregiving purposes, offering services or support, and for planned labour.

All organized sports and recreational activities will be suspended for the time being. People can still play sports individually or in pairs along as public health guildelines are followed.

Bars and restaurant dining rooms are also closed, allowing only take-out food delivery services. Libraries, theatres and auditoriums are also closed, except for educational purposes. Retail businesses, stores and boutiques can remain open. Interregional travel is not recommended, except of essential purposes.

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