News Photo by Crystal Nelson Mike and Becky Bean, of Harrisville, work in their yard outside of their North Lake Street home on Friday.

ALPENA — Public Health officials in northern Michigan are asking snowbirds and travelers from Southeast Michigan to self-quarantine for 14 days if they head north to seek shelter in their cabins and cottages.

Denise Bryan, administrative health officer of District Health Department Nos. 2 and 4, joined the Northern Michigan Public Health Alliance in issuing a travel advisory to those returning to the region.

The advisory says the traveling “potentially poses an unnecessary risk to full-time residents in northern Michigan.” The increased population to the regions puts a strain on communities as travelers seek supplies and health care in the event they become sick.

Additionally, many rural communities may not be equipped with personnel, supplies or resources for a surge in population.