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QUEBEC — In another sign Quebec is grinding to a halt, daycares, elementary and high schools, CEGEPs and universities will be closed for the next two weeks as Quebec steps up its battle against the novel coronavirus.

Premier François Legault made the announcement — which affects about one million students and teachers in 3,200 public and private establishments — at a news conference Friday updating Quebecers on the evolution of the COVID-19 situation.

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Legault said he knows that the closing will be an inconvenience for some parents, but said it has to be done to slow as much as possible the spread of COVID-19. Quebec, nevertheless, considers the situation stable with 17 confirmed cases.

“I know this will be a headache for parents, but it is our responsibility, the challenge for the next two weeks, to ensure the fewest number of cases possible,” Legault said at a news conference held at the legislature.