Swine Flu and the Homeless Sector
Swine flu information for services working with homeless people.
Homeless people, particularly people sleeping rough or in inappropriate accommodation may have specific difficulties in a pandemic situation. Homeless people often have medical conditions which could predispose them to a more severe flu response or may be in circumstances which increase their vulnerability. People who are sleeping on the streets or have no appropriate accommodation in which they have a right to reside are disadvantaged in the pandemic situation.
It is crucial that service providers remain calm and communicate with their partners in health and homelessness. Emergency planners need to make arrangements to address the needs of homeless people with flu symptoms. Local services are advised to contact their local Bronze Health and Social Care Group or Local Flu Coordinator, these can be reached through their local Primary Care Trust.
Anyone with flu like symptoms is asked to either use the
National Pandemic Flu Service website or call 0800 1513 100. If symptomatic swine flu is diagnosed, they will be given a unique reference number in order for their flu friend to collect anti-virals on their behalf.
Pandemic Swine Flu and Rough Sleeping
Swine Flu and the Homeless Sector
Source: Homeless Link