A COVID-19 cluster at Big White Ski Resort has grown by another 28 cases, taking the total to 203 since the cluster was first declared last month.

Of the new cases, 22 were in people who live or work at Big While. Interior Health says of the 203 known cases, 126 are in people who live or work on the mountain.

There are currently 43 active cases, while 160 people are considered to have recovered.

“There remains transmission among people who work and live at Big White. We are testing broadly at Big White so it’s important for those living and working to seek out testing and follow public health guidance,” said Interior Health Medical Health Officer, Dr. Silvina Mema.

“We continue to work with the Big White community to limit spread of the virus.”

The health authority is again asking people to avoid social gatherings and to follow all public health guidelines like physical distancing, regular hand washing, and the use of masks.

Testing and environmental public health inspections are ongoing at Big White, and people who may need to self-isolate are being assisted as necessary by Big White, the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary and Interior Health.

“We remain grateful to community leaders for their support, and remind everyone not to stigmatize or judge others who seek testing or test positive for COVID-19,” Mema added.

The next update on this cluster will be Friday, Jan. 22.