Quebec shuts down schools, bars, gyms Monday evening as COVID-19 cases soar

The Quebec government is shutting down several public settings as of Monday at 5 p.m., including bars, taverns, casinos, theatres, gyms and even schools, as cases of COVID-19 are soaring in a pre-holiday spike.

All those establishments were closed as of 5 p.m. Monday. 

"The situation is critical," Quebec Health Minister Christian Dubé said at a press conference at 1 p.m., just four hours earlier.

Schools across the province will be closed until at least Jan. 10, but remote learning could be extended further into January.

Some establishments, such as hair salons and personal care services, can remain open under the new measures.