COVID-19 in Quebec: What you need to know on Thursday

• Quebec reported 188new cases of COVID-19 andtwo more deaths on Thursday.Since the start of the pandemic, there have been64,244confirmedcases and5,773people have died.
• There are119peoplein hospital (an increase of six), including 12in intensive care(a decrease of two). Here's aguide to the numbers.
• CBC Montreal is collecting stories from Quebecers who have recovered from COVID-19. If you would like to share your experience, pleaseget in touch.
• Having trouble keeping track of what has reopened?Consult our list.

Premier Franois Legault says police will begin handing out fines to anyone who isn't wearing a mask when required according to public guidelines.

The fines will apply across the province, but Legault said authorities will be asked to pay special attention to regions that are classified as "yellow" under the government's new colour-coded COVID-19 alert system.

"There's a trend we do not like here," hesaid."We cannot accept that a few irresponsible individuals put at risk the entire population of Quebec."

The new enforcement measures go into effect Saturday.

WATCH: Quebec's new alert system, explained

How does Quebec's COVID-19 alert system work?

4 years ago

Duration 1:50

Quebec has unveiled a new, colour-coded COVID-19 alert system. Here's how it works.

Top COVID-19 stories today

• The Quebec government is expected to soon ban karaoke in bars and other enclosed public spaces.
• Two post-secondary institutions are closed inLa Pocatireafter outbreaks in the region.
• With cases rising, Montrealers urged to be vigilant when seeing family and friends.
• New books, new masks: What the first day back looked like at this Montreal school.
• Several schools on Montreal's South Shore reporting multiple COVID-19 cases.