The City has been closely monitoring COVID-19 developments throughout the COVID-19 event, and especially so in recent weeks. As has been the case in many communities, the Big Bear Valley has also experienced a significant increase in the number of new cases in recent weeks as a result of the Delta variant.

Between July 29 and August 12, a total of 153 new cases were reported in the Big Bear Valley. These new case levels are approaching the levels experienced in the Big Bear Valley in winter 2021, and have caused greater concern in our community. It is is believed that the vast majority of the new cases are occurring in unvaccinated individuals, with most vaccinated individuals that have experienced "breakthrough" cases reporting only minor and manageable symptoms. Data is not available for the Big Bear Valley, however, overall in San Bernardino County approximately 90.2% of all new cases since February 2021 have occurred in unvaccinated individuals, with 9.8% of County cases occurring in vaccinated individuals.

Thankfully, despite the recent increase in cases, the number of individuals hospitalized with COVID-19 has remained manageable in San Bernardino County. Hospitalizations still remain below summer 2020 levels, and are currently at approximately 25% of the peak levels experienced in winter 2021. Thankfully, the number of deaths attributed to COVID-19 in our County remains at the lowest levels since the pandemic began in March 2020.

Here in the Big Bear Valley, Bear Valley Community Hospital reports increased activity, and has implemented appropriate steps to be prepared for higher patient volumes, but continues to report that the situation locally remains manageable.

With the recent significant increase in COVID-19 cases in the Big Bear Valley, it's now more important than ever for EVERYONE to be responsible, think of others, and take appropriate precautions for your own personal circumstances:

Recent studies suggest that even vaccinated individuals may unknowingly spread COVID-19, so even if you are vaccinated please do your part - think of others' concerns and vulnerabilities!

At this time, the City has not implemented any new restrictions or recommendations, but may consider additional steps in the future if COVID-19 conditions do not improve. Please do your part to help us get things under control in the Big Bear Valley by exercising common sense, showing concern for others, and by considering the greater good!

If you have already been vaccinated, THANK YOU! If you have not been vaccinated yet, PLEASE do so - for your own sake and for our community's sake.

The City continues to partner with San Bernardino County to offer free, frequent vaccination events at City Hall. Vaccinations will be offered every Thursday for the foreseeable future, and a special weeklong event is also scheduled for next week (August 23 - 27). You can make an appointment by clicking here, or simply walk-in between the hours of 10 am - 2 pm.

The vaccination clinics offered at City Hall include both Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson vaccines, and a total of 43 residents participated at the last event on August 12. Many local doctor offices, pharmacies, and other providers are also offering vaccines in the Big Bear Valley.

As of August 11, COVID vaccinations in the Big Bear Valley are as follows (% of residents over age 12):

City of Big Bear Lake            

69.3% at least one dose         58.1% fully vaccinated

Big Bear City             

41.0% at least one dose         35.3% fully vaccinated

Fawnskin                    

56.4% at least one dose         49.1% fully vaccinated

Sugarloaf                    

34.6% at least one dose         30.0% fully vaccinated.

The easiest way to stay-informed is to sign up for the City's email newsletter and other updates. It's easy to sign up - simply visit the City's website and click on "Email Notifications" in the top center of the homepage. Simply click on the link, enter your name and email address, and you're all set. Signing up will ensure that you receive the City's monthly newsletter - Elevation 6752' - and other special communications from the City of Big Bear Lake for emergency situations, special events, and more.