With firearm deer season kicking off Sunday, the state has released guidance to help hunters protect themselves from COVID-19.
Michigan has over 400,000 licensed deer hunters, according to the Department of Natural Resources. That’s a 15% increase over last year.
Lynn Sutfin is with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. She said hunters need to practice safety when they get together with others.
“Hunting is a social event,” she said. “They get together, they go to a deer camp. Families, friends, it can be quite a few people from different households. Obviously, that has the potential to spread the virus.”
Sutfin said the state is asking hunters to not go inside together if more than two households or ten people are present.
“Of course stay home if you’re not feeling well, wear a mask,” she said
Whenever possible Sutfin said hunters should meet - and stay - outside.