Traverse City News and Events

Health Department Issues Warning To Snowbirds, Vacation/Second Home Owners

By Beth Milligan | April 1, 2020

The Grand Traverse County Health Department and Northern Michigan Public Health Alliance are issuing an advisory to snowbirds and individuals who have vacation or second homes in northern Michigan to take precautions to avoid spreading COVID-19 in the region and overwhelming the local healthcare system. 

"Northern Michigan counties are seeing an influx of individuals who are seeking shelter from areas with significant COVID-19 community spread or returning from travel outside of these counties," the statement reads. "While we understand the desire to seek shelter in our communities with fewer COVID-19 cases, this potentially poses an unnecessary risk to all residents of northern Michigan."

The advisory continues that the increased population in northern Michigan puts "a substantial strain on our communities as travelers seek supplies, such as groceries and toiletries, as well as potentially needing healthcare in the event they become sick. During this public health crisis, many rural communities may not be equipped with personnel, supplies, or resources for a surge in population."

The Health Department is asking that all individuals returning to northern Michigan from outside the area self-quarantine for 14 days upon arrival, and do not go out unless absolutely necessary. Following the two-week quarantine, individuals should still continue to follow the "Stay Home Stay Safe" order and only leave the home for essential reasons. If individuals are sick, they are advised to stay home and not leave their residence, and to contact their healthcare provider if they have COVID-19 symptoms (such as fever and dry cough).

"By following these simple guidelines, the risk for spreading COVID-19 lowers significantly, thus protecting everyone who lives, works, and plays in beautiful northern Michigan," the statement concludes. "This advisory will remain in effect until lifted and is endorsed by local public health, local healthcare systems, local law enforcement, and county leadership."

Comment

NMC To Relocate University Partners To Main Campus, Consider New Ideas For University Center Building

Read More >>

Career Tech Center Student Scores Podium Finish In State Phlebotomy Contest

Read More >>

United Way Will Host Nonprofit Volunteer Fair This Saturday At Commongrounds

Read More >>

DDA to Talk Surveillance Cameras, TIF 97, Streetscape Policy

Read More >>

Aerial Mobility Showcase Coming to TC

Read More >>

City Starts Leaf Pick-Up Monday

Read More >>

Cops Hammering Grandview Parkway/M-22 Construction Zone

Read More >>

City Commissioners Approve River Tours, Hickory Study; Reject Trespassing Ordinance

Read More >>

Rotary Club to Plant 600 Trees Today

Read More >>

The Big Three: TCAPS Eyes Central Grade, Central High, and Music Program Construction Projects

Read More >>

Project Alpha, Facilities, Septic Ordinance on County Agenda

Read More >>

First NMC Science Symposium Set for Saturday

Read More >>

Now Hiring! Spring & Summer 2025 Jobs

Read More >>

BATA Showcases the Power of Green Public Transportation for Earth Week

Read More >>