INTRODUCTION: The burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease is substantial among adults aged ≥ 60 years and adults with risk factors for severe RSV. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals (HCPs) related to RSV disease and vaccination, with a focus on adults aged ≥ 60 years.
METHODS: During November 14-30, 2023, a cross-sectional, web-based survey was administered to HCPs, targeting a total of 600 primary care physicians (PCPs), specialist physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs)/physician assistants (PAs), and pharmacists. Survey questions evaluated knowledge about RSV disease, vaccines, and vaccination recommendations; RSV-related attitudes and perceptions; and RSV vaccination practices. Responses were analyzed descriptively, overall and by HCP subgroup. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to explore HCP characteristics associated with RSV vaccination knowledge and practices.
RESULTS: Of the 603 respondents (148 PCPs, 151 specialist physicians, 150 NPs/PAs, and 154 pharmacists), 63.0% were very familiar with RSV disease in patients aged ≥ 60 years. Although most HCPs recognized the benefits of RSV vaccination within this patient population, many HCPs were not fully knowledgeable about RSV vaccine recommendations, and 33.5% had not recommended, prescribed, or administered any RSV vaccine to patients aged ≥ 60 years in the previous 3 months. In multivariable regression analyses, HCP familiarity with RSV disease (among other factors) was consistently associated with RSV vaccination knowledge and practices.
CONCLUSIONS: This study characterized RSV disease- and vaccine-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices among HCPs in the United States during the first season of RSV vaccine availability for adults aged ≥ 60 years. These findings can help to inform HCP and patient education efforts to address potential RSV vaccination knowledge gaps and ensure equitable access to RSV vaccines among older adults.
