iN VIDEO: Single case of COVID-19 at Penticton Indian Band grows to 12

A single case of COVID-19 five days ago has grown to 12 infections as of yesterday at the Penticton Indian Band.

A notice to the community posted on the band’s website states of the 12 cases, four people were experiencing severe symptoms. The first case was reported on Jan. 28, resulting in temporary closure of the band’s administration office.

Chief Greg Gabriel and the band council have recommended extending the closure of the band’s administration buildings with employees now working remotely.

Chief Gabriel spoke to the band yesterday via video, urging members to cooperate with a stay at home or shelter in place declaration, and avoid social contact. While it is not a public health order, the band wants the members to know is is a critical situation.

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Chief Gabriel asked for cooperation and support from the band to limit spread of COVID-19. He said the band’s health team was overwhelmed and reaching out to the broader community for help to carry on testing, urging members to “work together to get this under control."

"Our next step would have to be something like an order,” band spokesperson Dawn Russell said. “We want the membership to understand the seriousness of what is happening. Stay at home, and only go out when absolutely necessary.”

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