Another 656 new cases of COVID-19 reported in British Columbia today, as well as 16 new deaths.

There were 83 new cases across Interior Health taking the number of active cases in the health authority to 535 with 18 people in hospital, four in intensive care. Interior Health previously noted that a cluster of COVID-19 cases in Revelstoke has grown considerably to 46 cases.

Across B.C., the number of active cases were down slightly from yesterday to 8,796 people, with 336 in hospital, 76 in ICU – both of which are new records. The death toll meanwhile is now at 457 people, with 188 of those deaths coming since Nov. 3.

“It is a time for all of us to pause, to think about the many people throughout our province, our nation and the world who have been impacted by COVID-19 and other global epidemics. It is also a time to think about what we can do to make a difference,” said a statement from Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry.

There were 408 new cases in Fraser Health, 140 in Vancouver Coastal Health, 15 in Northern Health, and 10 on Vancouver Island.

“Remember that events, which refer to anything that gathers people together – whether on a one-time, regular or irregular basis – are not allowed for now,” Henry added. “This includes religious, cultural or community events. Do not gather at home with anyone other than your household or core bubble.”

Henry is reminding people to be vigilant in the common areas at work like the lunch room and in the corridors, while asking workplaces to review their COVID safety plans and make changes if needed.

There are currently 10,123 people under active public health monitoring because of exposure to someone with COVID-19, while 23,774 people who tested positive are considered to have recovered, about 70 per cent of the total.