Interior Health says it is working closely with the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, the City of Penticton, and the BC Wildfire Service to support people who have been affected by the Christie Mountain wildfire.

“We are proactively identifying any patients and clients who could be impacted by the evacuation order to provide the necessary health care support they may need,” a statement from IHA said.

“This includes supporting anyone who may be in isolation due to COVID-19. We are making separate arrangements to ensure the public is not exposed to any confirmed or suspected cases of COVID-19. ”

The health authority says the evacuation centre at 199 Ellis St. in Pentiction has COVID-19 screening measures in place including screening and the use of masks to ensure the safety of both evacuees and other community members.

“Everyone who needs to stay isolated will be contacted to develop a safe isolation plan. Precautions are in place to support COVID-positive patients and ensure appropriate accommodations are arranged,” added the statement.

As of today’s update, there were 2,452 people in isolation across the province as a result of identified exposure to known cases.

As a precaution, Interior Health says it is also preparing contingency plans in the event one of its facilities have to be evacuated this fire season.

“This could impact some services and IHA will ensure all patients, families and staff are safely relocated if the evacuation area increases,” noted the statement.