A large COVID-19 cluster has been identified at Big White Ski Resort.
Interior Health confirmed the cluster in a news release Tuesday afternoon (Dec. 15), saying large households and social gatherings appear to be responsible for much of the transmission.
"Our investigation reveals 60 cases of COVID-19 related to Big White; mostly from transmission related to shared housing," the release states in part.
"All identified cases are required to self-isolate and public health continues to follow-up directly with their close contacts with guidance and support."
The health authority reminds everyone within the Big White community to practice social distancing and limit socializing to immediate household bubbles.
Interior Health first acknowledged cases had been detected at Big White on Monday, indicating a testing team had been deployed to the ski hill to "expedite testing." At the time, Interior Health did not indicate how many cases had been detected.
Despite the size of the cluster, IH officials say there is a low risk to families and individuals who choose to visit Big White, as long as they stick to safety guidelines.
"Interior Health will monitor this cluster for additional cases, and environmental public health has been in the community to review safety plans at a number of locations, and provide guidance and support as required.
"We would also like to remind people to limit all non-essential travel. This means sticking to your own communities, and visiting your local ski hill daily."
