Interior Health continues COVID-19 cluster in Village of Salmo
By Nelson Daily Staff
As the province continues to set records with new COVID-19 cases, and Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry pleads with the public to work together for a slowdown, closer to home Interior Health continues to investigate the cluster of cases in the Village of Salmo.
In a media release Friday, Interior Health said the initial investigation reveals the cases appear to a result of recent gatherings within the village.
“While we cannot provide specific numbers, we can say that cases to date appear to be tied to a small number of recent gatherings at various locations in the broader Salmo area,” Interior Health said.
“At this time, there is no evidence of widespread transmission in the community and an outbreak has not been declared.”
Interior Health said all identified active cases continue to self-isolate and public health continues to follow-up directly with all close contacts to offer guidance and support.
Interior Health has not issued any closure notices to local businesses or organizations, although some have elected to close on their own.
“Environmental public health has been in the community to review safety plans at a number of locations and provide guidance and support as required,” Interior Health said.
Thursday there were 34 new COVID-19 cases confirmed within Interior Health. Currently there are 158 active cases and on insolation. There is one person in hospital and one in ICU.
Interior Health said this is an important reminder that COVID-19 is circulating in many areas of the region, not just our larger urban centres.
Interior Health said everyone in the Salmo area and 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 (see below).
- Practise physical distancing and use a mask if you cannot.
- Wash your hands often.
Testing by appointment only is available locally at the Salmo Wellness Centre and at the testing centres in Trail, Nelson or Castlegar. Testing is not recommended for individuals who do not have symptoms.
Booking a test:
Online: The public can book an appointment online through the COVID-19 Test Booking Form:
By phone: Call the COVID-19 Test Booking Line at 1-877-740-7747 for assistance with booking your test.
Testing is available for people with cold, influenza, or COVID-19-like symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Loss of sense of taste or smell
- Body aches (muscles and joints aching)
- Diarrhea
- Headache
Other milder symptoms may include: runny nose, fatigue, sore throat, vomiting and red eyes.
