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

• Quebec reported 1,470new cases ofCOVID-19 and 30more deaths on Thursday.
• Since the start of the pandemic, there have been146,532confirmedcases and7,155people have died. Here's aguide to the numbers.
• There are 737peoplein hospital (a decrease of three), including99in intensive care (no change).
• CBC Montreal is collecting stories from Quebecers who have recovered from COVID-19. If you would like to share your experience, pleaseget in touch.

With the number of cases and hospitalizations climbing, Quebec has cancelled its Christmas gathering plans.

The province reported 1,470 new infections and 30 more deaths on Thursday, a day after ittopped 1,500 new infections for the first time.

The government is also looking to ensure crowded shopping malls and stores don't become vectors for the virus during the busy holiday shopping season.

Starting Friday, inspectors and policewill be more visible in malls and shops to make sure businesses are complying with public health measures.

Those who do not comply face fines of up to $6,000, or could be closed altogether.

Top COVID-19 stories today

• A majority of Canadians are open to getting COVID-19 vaccine, but many want to wait.
• Quebec's premier says holiday gatherings may need to be cancelled.
• The province is cracking down on crowded malls and stores during the holidays.
• The Maimonides Geriatric Centre transferred most of its patients with COVID-19 to local hospitals.
• The federal government has extended existing international travel restrictions until Dec. 21 to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
• Your scarf is not a facemask and other COVID-19 winter rules from Montreal Public Health.
• The province is expected to announce guidelines this week for holiday gatherings involving seniors living in long-term care homes.