Interior Health says it has identified 20 more cases linked to the cluster at Big White Mountain near Kelowna.

It takes the total number of cases to 96, with 69 of those being people who live on Big White Mountain. Interior Health also notes 64 people have recovered after coming down with the virus and there is no one linked to this cluster in hospital.

As was the case before, the new cases are related to COVID-19 transmission that occurred within group housing, social events and gatherings.

“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,” said Dr. Silvina Mema, a Medical Health Officer with Interior Health.

“I want to thank Big White leadership, local residents, staff, and guests for doing their part to limit further exposures.”

Interior Health says the risk still remains low for families and individuals who visit Big White Mountain as long as they follow public health guidelines like sticking to their household bubbles. The resort also cancelled non-local reservations up to Jan. 8 with people being offered a full refund or the opportunity to re-book their trip when health authorities say it is okay to travel.

“We know that skiing and enjoying winter activities outdoors are important and we want this to be a great ski season,” added the statement from Interior Health.

“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.”

The health authority has set up self-isolation housing on Big White Mountain in partnership with the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary so people can self-isolate safety. Health officials are continuing to test for the virus throughout the community while also conducting environmental public health inspections.

Interior Health also notes the next update on the Big White COVID-19 cluster will be coming next Tuesday, Dec. 29 because of statutory holidays this week.

(Photo via Big White Ski Resort)