Quebec Casinos Remain Shuttered as COVID-19 Situation Becomes Critical

As the whole world is tense about the spread of a new variant of the coronavirus known as omicron, the Quebec province in Canada has announced several restrictions on public activities. It is obvious how the pandemic has impacted the economies, education, our lives, and whatnot in the last two years. The world governments seem concerned about any new developments about the coronavirus. So, alarmed by the recent events, the officials have ordered the Casinos to remain closed in Quebec.

COVID in Quebec

Canada, in the past few days, has seen a rapid increase in the number of COVID-infected patients. Several restrictions were put forward in order to contain the spread of this deadly virus. Theatres, restaurants, and other places of public gathering have been running at 50% capacity as the result of the pandemic. Yet, the province has recorded a sudden rise in the number of COVID patients, reportedly with 7,874 new patients. Around 600 of these patients are in hospitals hoping for a speedy recovery.

To add to the misfortune, around 80% of the newly reported cases are infected with the omicron variant. The province seems really invested in containing the spread because it has recorded one of the highest mortality rates due to the coronavirus since the pandemic. As reported by Christian Dube, the Health and Social Services Minister, the Quebec province has set in motion several precautionary measures in fear of increasing hospitalizations and fatalities.

Casinos to Close

Unfortunately, an outbreak was recorded in a casino from Quebec a couple of weeks ago. Casino du Lac-Leamy has reported around 9 cases among the workers. This outbreak was allegedly caused by the lack of precautionary measures in place and not following the COVID guidelines. The outbreak was contained as most of the workers worked remotely or did not come in contact with their co-workers.

Moreover, the predictions unanimously announce that the number of cases will likely go up in the upcoming weeks. The main reason for this would be the festivities and gatherings related to Christmas and New year. This comes as a piece of bad news for casinos that have begun to gradually open up for the customers. As a result, the 114 casinos and the 200 gaming centers would receive a blow in their business during the festive season. 

Conclusion

Although vaccination gives a little sigh of relief for the officials, it is not the time to take chances. The restrictions apply to any place that facilitates public gatherings. Due to the earlier outbreak, a special focus is given to casinos to remain closed during this festive season in the Quebec province. This may come as a shock for gaming enthusiasts. But we must understand that it is a necessary measure taken to ensure the safety of the people of Quebec.