Quebec's Health Ministry is urging the public to adopt preventive measures against the spread of respiratory viruses as holiday gatherings approach.
In a news release Thursday, the ministry emphasized that basic hygiene practices can help limit virus transmission, prevent illness and protect vulnerable people.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza and COVID-19 are circulating at increasing rates, according to the ministry.
Currently, the positivity rate is lower than in recent years. For example, out of all those tested, only three per cent of flu cases are coming back positive. COVID-19 is at 10 per cent and RSV is at 12.
But during the holidays, those rates are certain to jump, said Quebec's public health director, Dr. Luc Boileau.
"It's something that's now embedded in the community and we will have to face it during the wintertime, but it's moving up right now," he said.
Risk of transmission to most vulnerable
Boileau said it is crucial to protect those who are vulnerable, like young children, seniors and those with chronic illnesses.
"Most of us will think that it's not a problem because we are in good health, but giving those viruses to those people might be a great risk," he said.
To reduce the risk of infection, the government is asking residents to stay home if they experience symptoms such as fever, wear masks until symptoms subside and avoid contact with vulnerable people. Informing others about one's health condition before meeting in person is also recommended.
The Health Ministry stressed the importance of hygiene and respiratory etiquette, such as covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or the crook of an elbow and frequent handwashing.
Those experiencing symptoms are encouraged to consult the province's self-care guide for managing respiratory illnesses.
The ministry also highlighted the continued availability of free vaccinations against COVID-19 and influenza, describing immunization as one of the most effective ways to prevent severe complications.
Appointments can be booked at local health centres or pharmacies through the Clic Santé platform.
Residents are also being reminded to use health services appropriately, depending on the urgency of their needs. Pharmacies and the province's 811 health information line are available for advice on minor health issues, while medical clinics and virtual consultations are alternatives for non-urgent care, the ministry says.
The ministry urges people to avoid emergency rooms unless facing severe symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing.
"Every level of hospital care is understaffed, whether it's nursing or medical laboratory technicians or what have you, and as a result, a lot of people are coming and slowing down the services," said Dr. Donald Vinh, an infectious diseases specialist from the McGill University Health Centre in Montreal.
"That leads to congestion. So we have people who have to wait in the emergency room for days."
Quebecers without a family doctor can contact the province's Primary Care Access Point by calling 811 or visiting the digital service for referrals.
Along with information about preventing respiratory illnesses and managing flu or gastroenteritis symptoms, Quebec also provides online information about finding health resources.