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Interior Health adds seven additional cases to Big White COVID-19 community cluster

Nelson Daily Staff
By Nelson Daily Staff
January 9th, 2021

Friday, during a media update, Interior Health has identified an additional seven cases of COVID-19 linked to the Big White Mountain community cluster.

The total number of cases identified to date is 143.

Of the 143 known COVID-19 cases linked to this cluster, 91 reside on Big White Mountain. There are currently 22 cases active and on isolation and 121 individuals have recovered.

“We are closely monitoring the Big White Mountain community cluster. It’s important visitors and staff keep following precautions to minimize any further spread,” said Dr. Silvina Mema, medical health officer.

“This ski season, stick to your local ski hill with members of your household.”

Interior Health reported 81 new COVID-19 cases Friday for a total of 830 active and on isolation. Provincially, there were 617 new COVID-19 cases.

There are 32 people currently in hospital with 10 in ICU.

Sadly, there were three more deaths — two at Heritage Square in Vernon and one at Heritage Retirement Residents in West Kelowna.

Interior Health said everyone in the Big White community is reminded to avoid social gatherings and that socialization must be limited to immediate household bubbles.

The public is also urged to please follow public health guidance such as physical distancing, washing your hands regularly and wearing a mask.

Interior Health said the risk remains low for families and individuals visiting Big White Mountain who follow public health guidance. In other words, it is safe to go to Big White when you stick to your immediate household bubble and avoid socializing and gathering, etc.

Interior Health is continuing outreach COVID-19 testing throughout the Big White community and environmental public health inspections.

The next update on this outbreak will be Tuesday, Jan. 12.

Interior Health remains grateful to community leaders for their support and remind everyone not to stigmatize or judge others who seek testing or test positive for COVID-19.

Everyone in all communities should remain vigilant in following COVID-19 precautions:

  • Keep to your household bubbles and avoid social gatherings.
  • Stay home when you are sick and get tested if you have any symptoms consistent with COVID‑19.
  • Practise physical distancing and use a mask if you cannot.
  • Wash your hands often.

Categories: GeneralHealth

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