Interior Health asks Big White residents to watch for COVID-19 symptoms after large party

Interior Health is asking anyone who attended "congregate events" in the past week at Big White to monitor themselves for COVID-19 symptoms.

A large party was held March 29 at Charley Victoria's All Day Après on the mountain. A video posted to social media showed people dancing, kissing and not social distancing from one another in the restaurant.

Following the party, Big White Ski Resort fired employees who attended and is pursuing legal action to end the restaurant's lease with the ski resort. The owner of the restaurant has since apologized.

READ MORE: Big White restaurant owner issues apology for party that broke COVID rules

Dr. Silvina Mema, medical health officer with Interior Health, sent a statement to Big White Ski Resort April 2, saying anyone who attended an event March 29 have put themselves at risk of contracting COVID-19.

"COVID-19 activity is increasing across the interior, including Big White," she said in the statement. "As such, we are asking anyone who was at this recent event to monitor themselves closely for symptoms of COVID-19."

Those who show symptoms should get a COVID-19 test immediately, she said.

"It is important to stress that COVID-19 testing is confidential. Interior Health’s only priority is to ensure that we identify any new cases and prevent further spread," she said.

COVID-19 symptoms include: fever, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, loss of smell or taste and other milder symptoms may include: a sore throat, loss of appetite, fatigue, body aches (muscles and joints aching), diarrhea, headache, and nausea or vomiting.

COVID-19 tests can be booked online through the COVID-19 Test Booking Form or by calling 1-877-740-7747.

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