The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Quebec. The province experienced an early and substantial presence of the virus, with a high number of cases and deaths, particularly in long-term care homes during the initial wave (March-June 2020). This surge prompted swift governmental action to mitigate spread and protect the healthcare system.
Evolution of Public Health Measures
Quebec implemented a range of evolving public health measures to counter COVID-19. Initial lockdowns began in March 2020, closing daycares, educational facilities (March 13), and non-essential businesses (March 25). The province declared its first Public Health Emergency on March 14, 2020, renewed every 10 days until June 1, 2022.
A province-wide curfew was implemented from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., starting January 9, 2021, for nearly six months. Quebec was the only Canadian province to enforce such a measure, which was briefly reinstated in January 2022. Mask mandates became mandatory in closed public spaces for individuals over 12 years old starting July 18, 2020. This policy remained until May 14, 2022, when Quebec was the last province to lift it for most indoor settings.
The vaccine passport system was introduced on September 1, 2021. It required proof of vaccination for access to non-essential activities in designated high and moderate-risk sectors, including restaurants, bars, gyms, and indoor venues. It was also expanded to include big-box stores, provincial alcohol stores, and provincial cannabis stores. Gathering restrictions also varied, including limits on indoor and outdoor public events.
Vaccination Strategy and Rollout
Quebec’s vaccination strategy prioritized vulnerable populations and healthcare workers. The province received its first Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines on December 13, 2020, with the campaign beginning the next day. An 89-year-old long-term care resident was the first person in Quebec and Canada to receive a dose.
Rollout to the general population began March 1, 2021, starting with individuals aged 80 and over in Montreal, then expanding to younger age groups. By May 14, 2021, all adults were eligible to book appointments. By June 6, 75% of eligible Quebecers had received at least one dose. Mass vaccination centers and local clinics facilitated widespread access.
By mid-January 2022, all adults became eligible for a third dose. As of April 11, 2023, 84.8% of the population had received at least one vaccine dose.
Societal and Economic Impact
The pandemic significantly reshaped daily life and economic activity in Quebec. Remote learning became widespread, and telework became prevalent for many employees. This shift impacted city centers and mobility patterns.
Economically, tourism and hospitality faced substantial disruptions. Accommodation services struggled to regain pre-pandemic activity levels without the return of business and leisure travel. Small businesses also experienced hardship. Both federal and provincial governments implemented financial support programs, such as the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and the Incentive Program to Retain Essential Workers (IPREW), to mitigate economic impacts and support businesses and households.
The pandemic also affected the psychological and social well-being of the population. A survey indicated over three-quarters of Quebecers felt a decrease in satisfaction with their social life, and a notable percentage reported loneliness. Concerns about the health of loved ones and personal health were also widespread.