Quebec's professional doctors order recommends masking in public as viruses surge

Quebec Premier François Legault holds a mask during a news conference in Montreal, on Tuesday, Jan. 19, 2021. Quebec's college of physicians is urging people to wear masks in public as hospitals are battling a trio of respiratory viruses that are filling up emergency rooms. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Paul Chiasson

MONTREAL - Quebec's college of physicians is urging people to wear masks in public as hospitals are battling a trio of respiratory viruses that are filling up emergency rooms.

The order is recommending masks be worn on a "voluntary and preventive basis" in public places, crowded private spaces and on public transit.

It says hospitals are facing a "triple threat" of viruses — COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV.

A report by the ºÃÉ«tv government for the week ending Nov. 5 found that levels of influenza and RSV across the country are higher than expected for this time of year.

Health Minister Christian Dubé has formed a crisis group to try and reduce overcrowding at hospital emergency rooms across Quebec.

The doctors order is reminding the public to be extra careful as the holidays approach and to ensure their vaccinations are up to date.

This report by ºÃÉ«tvwas first published Nov. 14, 2022.

The ºÃÉ«tv Press. All rights reserved.

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