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May 20, 2021 – Provincial government update on the COVID-19 pandemic

Here is an update on recent decisions and actions by the provincial government in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Vaccination for ages 12 to 17

Minister of Health and Social Services Christian Dubé announced that the vaccination campaign for ages 12 to 17 will begin next Tuesday, May 25.

“Opening up vaccinations to the 12-17 age group is good news so that we can vaccinate as many Quebecers as possible and attain our goal of immunizing 75% of the population by mid-June. This age group represents 530,000 young people, so 6% of the Québec population, which is a significant pool,” said Mr. Dubé. 

The minimum age for receiving the Pfizer vaccine was recently lowered to 12, with clinical trials showing a 100% efficacy rate for this age group. 

Vaccination options for young people and their parents 

From May 25 to June 23:

  • Time slots will be reserved in vaccination centres on evenings and weekends to accommodate everyone.
  • Drive-thru and bike-thru services at the Gilles-Villeneuve circuit and services at the Montréal-Trudeau Airport will facilitate access for families.
  • Vaccinations will be administered in schools the weeks of June 7 and June 14.

A “normal” return to school

Mr. Dubé said, “The great majority in this age group will receive their second dose before the return to school, which will make it possible to kick off the 2021/2022 school year on the right foot.” 

Minister of Education Jean-François Roberge was pleased to note that 98% of classes are currently open, a situation made possible thanks to the collective effort. 

Minister of Higher Education Danielle McCann announced that if 75% of students are vaccinated with both doses by the fall, they will all be able to attend classes in person for the return at the end of August. 

The easing of health measures is conditional on the epidemiological situation and a smooth vaccination campaign. 

Outdoor events

On Wednesday, the government gave the green light to festivals across the province, but they will be required to follow many complex guidelines. 

May 21

Outdoor shows with assigned seating can resume, with a maximum audience of 250. 

May 28

Indoor shows with assigned seating will be permitted to receive audiences of 2,500 people within a single venue. 

June 25

Outdoor shows without assigned seating will be permitted. Audiences will be limited to 2,500 per stage. Festivals that want to present several shows at the same time will be permitted to do so as long as there is a 500-metre distance between the stages