2318. Prevalence of Influenza-like Illness in Sheltered Homeless Populations: A Cross-Sectional Study in Seattle, WA

Abstract

Abstract Background Individuals experiencing homelessness are at an increased risk of respiratory illness due to high prevalence of underlying chronic conditions, inadequate ventilation and crowding in shelters, and difficulty accessing health services. Few studies have investigated the prevalence and transmission of viral respiratory infections within shelters. We sought to determine the prevalence and risk factors for influenza-like illness (ILI) at two homeless shelters in Seattle, WA. Methods Between January and April 2019, we conducted a cross-sectional study of adults experiencing homelessness who identified their primary residence as one of the two shelters in Seattle. Participants voluntarily enrolled if they self-reported at least two symptoms of acute respiratory illness in the past week. Demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were ascertained via questionnaire, and a mid-nasal swab was collected. ILI was defined as fever with cough or sore throat. Chronic lung disease was defined as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and/or chronic bronchitis. Results Among the 480 participants enrolled in the study, 204 (42.5%) reported ILI symptoms. Of those enrolled, 144 (30.0%) had chronic lung disease. The prevalence of ILI was higher among individuals with chronic lung disease (53.5% vs. 42.5%, P = 0.001). A total of 422 (87.9%) had health insurance; the prevalence of ILI was lower among those with health insurance (42.4% vs. 57.8%, P = 0.66). 216 (45.0%) of participants received flu vaccine; the prevalence of ILI was similar among those who received the vaccine than those that did not (42.6% vs. 42.4%, P = 1.00). 129 (30.6%) of those with health insurance sought care for their reported symptoms; ILI was more prevalent in those that sought care than those that did not throughout the observation period (33.8% vs. 21.7%, P = 0.002). Of those with ILI that sought care, 46 (54.8%, P = 0.42) received antivirals or antibiotics. Laboratory results for the corresponding mid-nasal swabs are pending. Conclusion A large proportion of our study population self-reported ILI and chronic lung disease. Despite high insurance coverage, a low proportion of homeless enrolled sought care for their symptoms or received treatment. Disclosures All authors: No reported disclosures.