Pandemic Planning in Homeless Shelters: A Pilot Study of a Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Testing and Support Program to Mitigate the Risk of COVID-19 Outbreaks in Congregate Settings
Tim O’Shea, Claire Bodkin, Vaibhav Mokashi, Kerry Beal, Jill Wiwcharuk, Robin Lennox, Dale Guenter, Marek Smieja, David Bulir, Sylvia Chong
Abstract
We tested 104 residents and 141 staff for coronavirus disease 2019 who failed daily symptom screening in homeless shelters in Hamilton, Canada. We detected 1 resident (1%), 7 staff (5%), and 1 case of secondary spread. Shelter restructuring to allow physical distancing, testing, and isolation can decrease outbreaks in shelters.
Topics & Concepts
OutbreakPandemicCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Isolation (microbiology)Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakSocial distanceCoronavirusVirologyEnvironmental healthMedicinePersonal protective equipmentDiseaseInfectious disease (medical specialty)BiologyPathologyMicrobiologyHomelessness and Social IssuesFood Security and Health in Diverse PopulationsGeriatric Care and Nursing Homes