COVID-19 death toll takes significant jump in B.C.

The number of COVID-19 related deaths shot up by 18 on Friday in British Columbia.

That raises the provincial death toll to 988.

Another 617 new cases were announced with 81 in Interior Health.

There are 6,118 active cases with 358 people in hospital, and 75 in intensive care.

Currently, 8,755 people are under active public health monitoring as a result of identified exposure to known cases and a further 48,205 people who tested positive have recovered.

There are no new health-care facility outbreaks, and the outbreaks at Amenida Senior Community, North Peace Seniors Housing, Rotary Manor, Royal Arch Masonic Home and Tabor Home are over.

Meantime, Interior Health (IH) 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 cases, 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.”

IH said the risk remains low for families and individuals visiting the 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.