Infectious Diseases and the Homeless

Population
By Elena Bello, Gabby Curtola, Kierra Tinsley, Laticia Bivins, Shornora Miller
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Why is it Important?
Homelessness is in almost every community. According to the World Economic Forum, there are an estimated 150 million

homeless people worldwide, and homelessness is on the rise in many parts of the developed world. Homelessness is a complex issue

that affects not only the individuals experiencing it but also the society as a whole. homelessness is a ripple effect throughout the

community, it impacts crime and safety and the use of tax dollars. It's important to recognize that individuals who are homeless face a

higher risk of contracting infectious diseases, including Hepatitis C, Tuberculosis, HIV, and COVID-19. This is because they often find

themselves in temporary housing that is cramped, leaving limited options for social distancing. Access to basic hygiene facilities such

as handwashing sinks, bathrooms, and showers are also scarce, which further increases their vulnerability to these

diseases.Preventing and ending homelessness is important because it is a human rights issue, and everyone deserves a safe, stable,

and affordable place to call home. By addressing the root causes of homelessness and providing adequate support and resources, we

can prevent and end homelessness, improve the well-being of individuals and communities, and promote social justice and equity.

Oppenheimer, S. C., Nurius, P. S., & Green, S. (2016). Homelessness History Impacts on Health Outcomes and Economic and Risk Behavior Intermediaries: New Insights from
Population Data. Families in society : the journal of contemporary human services, 97(3), 230–242. https://doi.org/10.1606/1044-3894.2016.97.21
Research on Topic
● Population: ● Study where interventions for basic hygiene
○ Homelessness accounted for 21.9% of predisposing measures were sent to organizations working
risk factors for infection. with the homeless community. Organizations
○ Homeless individuals had a significantly higher
actions included:
○ identifying signs of early infection by health
amount of wounds and chronic skin disease care workers by swabbing and culturing
possible wounds
● Most at-risk homeless individuals ○ surveillance system was established that
○ Youth helped the monitoring of wounds
○ Individuals with previous skin conditions ○ informative poster that focused on being easy
○ Individuals with less resources for wound care to read was passed out.
■ 95% ● Limitations for intervention:
○ included the mobile nature of the homeless
● Most common health issues population and limited financial resources.
○ soft tissue infections
■ necrotizing fasciitis
■ Bacteremia

● Need for:
○ Infection Prevention
○ Knowledge for early identification of common skin/soft
tissue infections
○ Better wound care
Survey Results
Analysis of Findings
-”Lack of resources”, “Lack of healthcare”, “Mental illness”, “Not wanting help”
The major responses recorded regarding challenges faced by people experiencing homeless were the lack of
resources provided for them, not having healthcare, psychiatric and drug related issues, and not being able to
help those who do not want it. Many of these responses reflect how homelessness is a mix of these
conditions and how it further increases the risks homeless people face especially when experience a disease
or illness. Many responses also reflect how there is not much a society can do to better these conditions
unless a big investment is made either by taxpayers or other source.
What Should Be Done?
Access to Healthcare Services: Provide accessible and affordable healthcare services specifically tailored for the homeless population. Establishing clinics or
mobile health units that offer vaccinations, screenings, and basic healthcare services can help in early detection and prevention of infectious diseases.
Shelter and Housing Solutions: Improve housing stability by increasing the availability of affordable housing options and temporary shelters. Stable housing
conditions are fundamental for preventing the spread of infectious diseases. Supportive housing programs that address both housing and health needs can be
particularly effective.
Education and Outreach: There are resources out there, especially close by, such as HOPE 2023 kaiser Permanente, west ed,Solano County
community integration services., these resources strive emplement educational programs and outreach initiatives to raise awareness about infectious
diseases, preventive measures, and available healthcare services. Engage community organizations, social workers, and volunteers to connect with homeless
individuals and provide information on staying healthy.
Mental Health Support: Address the mental health challenges often faced by the homeless population. Mental health services and counseling can contribute
to better overall well-being, reducing vulnerabilities to infectious diseases.
Hygiene Facilities: Increase access to hygiene facilities, such as public restrooms and shower facilities. Promoting good hygiene practices is crucial for
preventing the transmission of infectious diseases. Outreach efforts can include the distribution of hygiene kits containing essentials like soap, hand sanitizers,
and personal hygiene items.
Collaboration between Agencies: Foster collaboration between healthcare providers, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community groups.
A coordinated effort ensures that resources are efficiently utilized, and a comprehensive approach is taken to address the diverse needs of the homeless
population.
Vaccination Campaigns: Implement targeted vaccination campaigns within homeless communities. Offering free and easily accessible vaccinations against
common infectious diseases can significantly reduce the risk of outbreaks.
Legal and Policy Support: Advocate for policies that support the rights and well-being of the homeless population. Legal aid services can help individuals
navigate healthcare systems, access benefits, and address legal barriers that may contribute to homelessness.