b'The Important Role of Flu Vaccines How to protect your peopleThe 202021 seasonal flu vaccine, when medically appropriate, is vital. Ensure that plans are in place for your mission or ministry to appropriately address the seasonal flu withinthe homeless community, as well as reduce its compounding effects on COVID19. We recently received the following guidance from federal agencies. USICH Report The Federal Response for Families and Individuals Experiencing Homelessness Report addresses the impact of Coronavirus on families and individuals experiencing homelessness from January 1, 2020, through June 30, 2020. CDC Immunization GuidanceDuring the COVID19 pandemic, reducing the overall burden of respiratory illnesses is essential to protect vulnerable populations at risk for severe illness, the healthcare system, and other critical infrastructure. Healthcare providers should use every opportunity during the influenza vaccination season to administer vaccines to all eligible persons. Visit http://www.citygatenetwork.org/flu2020 for links to the CDC and USICH reports. intensive care unit or needing a ventilator.Facility Directives The Center for Disease Control (CDC), Provide COVID-19 prevention suppliessuch National Health Care for the Homeless Councilas soap, alcohol-based hand sanitizers that (NHCHC), and Housing and Urban Develop- contain at least 60 percent alcohol, tissues, ment have given specific recommendations.trash baskets, and, if possible, cloth face cover-The CDC published new directives due toings that are washed or discarded after each the vulnerability of people experiencing home- usein common areas. lessness. Here are some points that the CDC recommends when it comes to shared housing Limit or avoid non-essential volunteers and and homeless services. visitors in shared areas. \x02 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG 25'