As a result of inadequate housing and income, people experiencing homelessness face multiple health challenges, including poor health outcomes and lack of access to health care services (Frankish, Hwang, & Quantz, 2005; Hwang et al., 2011; Hwang et al., 2010). As a consequence of their living situations, people experiencing homelessness are more vulnerable to transmission of disease, especially during public health crises such as pandemics (O’Sullivan & Bourgoin, 2010). For example, they may not have access to clean water for hand washing, or may be forced to sleep in overcrowded spaces. Since 2000, there have been several public health emergencies that have compromised the health and wellbeing of many communities, raising legal, political and ethical concerns (Gostin & Berkman, 2007; Wilson, 2006). In this case study, we look at the response in Victoria, British Columbia (BC) to the 2009 H1N1 crisis, with a focus on lessons learned for cross-sector collaboration in addressing public health emergencies in the context of homelessness. We begin by describing homelessness in Victoria, and the policy context for addressing public health emergencies in the city and province. Then, drawing on data collected from policy-makers, service providers and those experiencing homelessness, we describe that city’s response to the H1N1 threat, including pandemic planning, communication of H1N1 information, prevention efforts (including the delivery and uptake of vaccinations), and potential and actual impacts on health and social services provision.
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The Canadian Observatory on Homelessness is the largest national research institute devoted to homelessness in Canada. The COH is the curator of the Homeless Hub.
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About UsCanadian Observatory on Homelessness
The Canadian Observatory on Homelessness is the largest national research institute devoted to homelessness in Canada. The COH is the curator of the Homeless Hub.
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- Introduction
- 1. The Challenges of Pandemic Planning in the Context of Homelessness
- 2. Accessing Justice amid Threats of Contagion
- 3. The Case of Victoria, BC
- 4. The Calgary Response
- 5. Regina, Saskatchewan: The Case of Small, Isolated Urban Centres
- 6. H1N1 and Homelessness in Toronto: Identifying Structural Issues in the Homelessness Sector
- 7. Health Needs and Analysis of Pandemic Planning in Four Canadian Cities
- Conclusion
- Appendix A: Canadian Definition of Homelessness
- Appendix B: Homeless Participant Survey
- Appendix C: Homeless Participant Interview
- Appendix D: Agency and Service Provider Interview
- Pandemic Preparedness and Homelessness: Lessons from H1N1 in Canada
- 3. The Case of Victoria, BC