On Saturday, large numbers of people without a mask gathered at Diamond Lake in Cass County according to videos on social media from that day. Brian Hartl, epidemiologist from the Kent County Health Department, says that although it is harder for the virus to be transmitted outside than inside it still is important to keep social distance when being outside.
“Anytime large numbers of people get together and are in close contact with each other that’s just an increase risk for transmission of the virus.”
While Hartl says he cannot predict whether the number of those infected with COVID-19 will increase, he says its important to prevent gatherings where social distance is not possible.
“So not trying to gather in close contact and still trying to maintain social distance even when you are outside.”
When going to the beach, Hartl says its okay to remain in close contact with those in your household but its important to social distance from others.
“We like to set up our chairs in a small circle, typically, but make that circle bigger and be cognizant of who you are with and how close you get to those individuals. Its not fun to wear a mask at the beach – we understand that – that’s the best precaution to take: social distance and wear a mask but its no the funnest thing to do when you are outside enjoying the Michigan weather. So its really social distancing that we recommend, be aware of who is around you when setting up your area on the beach make sure you are not setting up close to another group of people.”
