Homelessness: The State of Vaccines

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    Over a year into the coronavirus pandemic, it looks like we are finally starting to see a bit of light at the end of the tunnel. With a number of vaccines slowly starting to roll out, a big question has arisen that needs to be addressed. How are those experiencing homelessness going to receive the vaccine? According to the Oregon Health Authority’s vaccine distribution list, those experiencing homelessness are eligible to receive the vaccine no later than March 29th, 2021. They are eligible even before most frontline workers. Some people may be questioning why that is and it’s because since those experiencing homelessness are less likely to have health insurance, they are less likely to be tested and diagnosed with Covid-19. Many also live in homeless communities, making transmission of the virus extremely easy.

    This raises the question, however; how will those experiencing homelessness be able to receive the covid-19 vaccine? The CDC has set up basic guidelines and strategies on how to mass vaccinate people experiencing homelessness but it is up to individual states on how to implement them. Kim Toevs, the Communicable Disease Director with Multnomah County has stated that “The county currently reaches out to unsheltered people with other health care needs, particularly with HIV and syphilis cases, using a van to travel to campsites...this system could be tapped for taking vaccines directly to the streets, provided there are adequate volunteer staff and doses available, the stability of the vaccine can be assured, and people are properly informed on the vaccine in advance.” While there are plans in place, vaccinating the homeless population is going to be a difficult task.

For more information on vaccinating Oregon's homeless population, click here


Published by Spencer Rutledge

Film Major at Portland State University

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