Zainab Al-Mehdar
Pontiac May 18, 2022
This week marks the first week Quebec has done without masks, making it the last province to go maskless.
“The evolution of the epidemiological situation, which is encouraging overall, allows us to . . .
partially lift this important measure. This has effectively contributed to the protection of Quebecers and remains relevant in certain cases. Wearing the mask in the places concerned will now be a matter of individual choice. We invite citizens to remain responsible in their risk management and to show respect.” Christian Dubé, Minister of Health and Social Services.
As it stands masks are still compulsory when using public transportation and while at clinics, and hospitals. Also, people who have had COVID-19 must wear a mask during any social interaction following their isolation, i.e. at least five days following their isolation at home.
Although many have jumped at the news, there are still vulnerable people out there and in a tweet Mylène Drouin, Montreal’s public health director is asking that people respect each other’s boundaries.
“Some people are more at risk, others want to be more cautious. Let’s respect everyone’s choice when it comes to wearing a mask in public places,” she said.
As of May 18, CISSSO listed the following statistics for the Pontiac area:
Alleyn-et-Cawood: 14 (+5)
Bristol: 28 (+1)
Bryson: 45 (+1)
Campbell’s Bay: 59 (+1)
Chichester: 57 (+23)
Clarendon: 5 or less (no increase)
Fort-Coulonge: 159 (+4)
Île-du-Grand-Calumet: 27 (+4)
L’Îsles-aux-Allumettes: 42 (no increase)
Litchfield: 5 or fewer (no increase)
Mansfield and Pontefract: 251 (+8)
Otter Lake: 48 (no increase)
Portage-du-Fort: 10 (+1)
Rapide-des-Joachims 5 or less (no increase)
Shawville: 153 (+3)
Sheenboro: 5 or less (no increase)
Thorne: 5 or less (no increase)
Waltham: 22 (+1)
