20 new COVID-19 cases linked to ski resort

Another 20 cases of COVID-19 are linked to a cluster at Big White Ski Resort near Kelowna, bringing the total to 96.

Interior Health says the new cases are related to transmission that occurred within group housing, social events and gatherings.

Sixty-four people have recovered, there are 32 active cases, and no one associated with the cluster is hospitalized.

Sixty-nine of the people resided at Big White.

“These new cases were expected, many of these new cases were on isolation already as they had shared their household with confirmed cases. What we hope to see in the days ahead is a reduction in the new cases which will show our case follow-up and the additional safety measures are working. I want to thank Big White leadership, local residents, staff, and guests for doing their part to limit further exposures” said Dr. Silvina Mema, medical health officer.

“We know that skiing and enjoying winter activities outdoors are important and we want this to be a great ski season. It is safe to enjoy the outdoors, and we ask that everyone follows all public health orders by staying to your local hill, skiing with your household bubble and following all safety protocols ski hills have in place.”

In collaboration with the Kootenay Boundary Regional District and community leadership, self-isolation housing on Big White Mountain has been established for people with COVID-19 to recover safely with support from Interior Health.

IH 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.,” stated the health agency.

“The entire community was stunned when the cluster was first announced,” said Michael J. Ballingall, Senior Vice President at Big White Ski Resort Ltd. “We all rallied together with the assistance of Interior Health, the Regional District and passionate community members, to ensure those who tested positive, or came into close contact with someone who did, were immediately in a safe space to isolate with adequate food for the 14-day quarantine, and access to mental health support.”

Due to the statutory holidays, the next update on this outbreak will be Tuesday, Dec. 29.