André Fortin says he would like to see data per MRC
André Fortin says he would like to see data per MRC
André Fortin on the decision to publish or not the reported cases of COVID-19 by sector of the Outaouais region.
The MNA for Pontiac André Fortin says its unfortunate that the establishment have not release more specific data, disclosing this information could reassure some citizens.
Fortin added that, even if the number of cases by MRC in the Outaouais is not made public, it is important to respect the measures put in place by the different levels of government. He also highlighted the courage of workers in essential sectors, especially those working in the health department.
When asked, the President and CEO of the CISSS de l’Outaouais, Josée Filion, said she understood the desire of citizens to have a portrait of the confirmed cases across the region. However, she indicates that she wants to avoid a “witch hunt” and that an adaptation could be made according to the evolution of the situation.
Tuesday, 50 cases were reported in the Outaouais region, the “majority” of which are in urban areas, according to the CISSS de l’Outaouais. The establishment observed that the region is not in a situation of widespread community transmission, which means that the source of contamination in each of the cases is known. “Despite the relatively small number of cases compared to other regions of Quebec, we ask the people of the Outaouais to continue to comply with the instructions issued by the government,” quote from a press release from the organization.
Five employees of the CISSS de l’Outaouais infected
As of March 30, five hospital workers have contracted COVID-19. According to the CISSS de l’Outaouais, they are currently in self-isolation and their health conditions are being monitored. Investigations were carried out to trace the contacts they have had over recent days. The CISSS de l’Outaouais reminds that protection “for both users and employees remains the top priority”.
On March 27, a contingency plan was announced to support the Hull hospital currently understaffed (at least three of the five employees are infected with the virus). Nurses from the Gatineau Hospital and other facilities will assist the Hull team.
In order to limit the spread as much as possible in hospitals, cold, warm and hot zones have been set up in emergencies and care units. These separate areas will set appart users who present for any emergency other than COVID-19 (cold area) from those with symptoms (warm area) or those suffering from the virus (hot area).
The CISSS de l’Outaouais finally reminded that the responsibility of the population is “essential” in this pandemic period while the importance of remain confined except for essential travel is reiterated.
For all information on Covid-19, the public is invited to consult the Québec government’s website at www.quebec.ca/coronavirus.
Those who have symptoms or have concerns about COVID-19 can contact the dedicated information line at 1-819-644-4545.
