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date: 22 April 2025

Homelessness and Vaccination Strategies: Problems and Potential Solutions to Vaccinate Vulnerable Populationslocked

Homelessness and Vaccination Strategies: Problems and Potential Solutions to Vaccinate Vulnerable Populationslocked

  • Elena Mitevska, Elena MitevskaCumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary
  • Priyanka GillPriyanka GillCumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary
  • , and Monty GhoshMonty GhoshGeneral Internal Medicine, University of Alberta

Summary

People experiencing homelessness (PEH) are at a higher risk of vaccine-preventable illnesses. They have higher rates of chronic illnesses that predispose them to communicable diseases, and this is compounded by poor access to sanitation. While vaccination is especially important in PEH, they tend to have lower rates of vaccine uptake compared to the general population. Factors impacting this discrepancy include difficulty accessing vaccines and public health programs, lack of access to primary care services, and distrust of the health care system. Despite this, there is evidence to suggest that many PEH are accepting of vaccinations and are willing to get vaccinated provided the right approach and interactions. Understanding client-specific barriers along with education and counseling are key to improving vaccine uptake in PEH, and programs targeted specifically at PEH can improve vaccine uptake and ultimately the health of PEH.

Subjects

  • Behavioral Science and Health Education
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Special Populations

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