B.C. health officials are reporting 617 new cases of COVID-19 today, including 81 in Interior Health.

There are 830 active cases in Interior Health as officials reported another 18 deaths across the province, three of which were in the Interior, taking the death toll to 988 people.

“This has been a week of celebration and heartbreak for many throughout the Interior. While staff and residents of long-term care are receiving their COVID-19 vaccinations, sadly three more people have succumbed to their illness, all in long-term care,” IHA President and CEO Susan Brown said.

“While the COVID-19 vaccine brings hope and optimism, we must not lose sight of the important public health measures that help protect our vulnerable loved ones in the community.”

Brown says long term care residents in Interior Health are now being vaccinated against COVID-19, with the province noting there are now 46,259 people who have been vaccinated against COVID-19.

“Vaccinations are rolling out and residents at Sunnybank long-term care home in Oliver are officially immunized. As vaccine deliveries continue to arrive, and immunizations accelerate throughout our region, we must not lose focus on following the public health guidance that prevents the spread of COVID-19,” added Brown.

“Adhering to that guidance, combined with COVID-19 vaccine, will help bring an end to this challenging pandemic.”

Fraser Health reported 320 new cases, with 139 cases in Vancouver Coastal Health, 49 in Northern Health, and 27 on Vancouver Island. There was one case in a person who lives outside of Canada.

Across B.C., there are 6,118 active cases of COVID-19 with 358 people in hospital, 75 in intensive care. There are 32 people in hospital with COVID-19 across Interior Health, ten in intensive care. Further, there are now 8,755 people being actively monitored after being exposed to someone with COVID-19.

“As new COVID-19 cases continue to emerge in communities throughout the province, we must all recommit to our efforts to slow down transmission,” said a statement from Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Bonnie Henry.

“Most British Columbians have been doing their part, and we know it is frustrating when a few people put so many others at risk. Despite this, it is important to know your sustained efforts are saving lives. It will get us that much closer to the days without COVID-19.”

There are now 48,205 people who are considered to have recovered from COVID-19, about 85 per cent of the total.