The Health Care of Homeless Persons

Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness that occurs primarily during the winter months in temperate climates. The illness is usually self-limited, but the elderly and persons with chronic medical conditions are at increased risk for serious complications. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza and its complications. To prevent the spread of influenza, residents of shelters and homeless persons should consider receiving annual influenza vaccination. The optimal time for vaccination is in the fall, and vaccination of all homeless persons on the same day or within the same week may be an effective strategy.

Publication Date: 
2009