Interior Health says it has identified an additional 16 cases of COVID-19 linked to an cluster at Big White Ski Resort, taking the total number of cases to 76.

“Our investigation continues to reveal most cases are related to COVID-19 transmission that occurred within group housing, social events and gatherings,” it said, in a statement.

Of the 76 known COVID-19 cases, 44 are people who live on Big White Mountain. There are 19 people who have recovered – leaving 57 active cases – with no one linked to this cluster in hospital.

“Everyone in the Big White community is reminded to avoid social gatherings and that socialization must be limited to immediate household bubbles,” added the IHA statement. “Please follow public health guidance such as physical distancing, washing your hands regularly and wearing a mask.”

“We remind everyone not to stigmatize or judge others who seek testing or test positive for COVID-19.”

Interior Health also says in collaboration with the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary and local community leaders, it has set up housing on Big White Mountain for people to self-isolate.

“The safeguard and the health of our employees, community and guests is our first and foremost priority,” said Peter Plimmer, the President & CEO of Big White Ski Resort.

“We are committed to doing everything we can to support our employees and other workers on the mountain, from arranging transportation, accommodation and meals for anyone who needs to self-isolate and does not already have an appropriate place to stay.”

Health officials continue to say the risk is low for people who visit the ski resort as long as they follow public health guidelines.

“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.,” said Interior Health, noting people should avoid all non-essential travel and stick to their local ski hills only.

Testing and public health inspections are ongoing, and the next Big White update will be on Dec. 22. Updates will be released every Tuesday and Friday until the cluster is contained.

Big White Cancel Non Local Reservations to Jan. 8

Big White Ski Resort says it has cancelled an undisclosed number of bookings from people who are not local to the Kelowna area until Jan. 8, which is when the current restrictions are set to end.

Plimmer says until Jan 9 – unless restrictions are further extended – Big White will only allow season pass holders and people who live in the Central Okanagan to ski over the holiday season. People who have had reservations cancelled are being offered a full refund or the opportunity to re-book their trip when health authorities say it is okay to travel.

“Though the decisions we’ve made have financial consequences and disappointed many families who were looking to enjoy the holidays at Big White Ski Resort, we have no doubt that it was the right decision,” Plimmer said. “We care profoundly about our employees, our local community, and about doing the right thing.”

“While we are all passionate about the mountains, now is not the time to travel. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Big White Ski Resort this winter, but at a later date.”

Resort staff say ski lifts, ski school, rentals, restaurants, retail stores, activities, accommodation, outdoor food trucks, and other privately owned businesses are open but operating under strict safety protocols and provincial guidelines.