Journal Article Epublish 6 citations
PubMed: 40165942 DOI: 10.1080/20523211.2025.2482669
Knowledge, attitude, and perception regarding the respiratory syncytial virus vaccine among healthcare professionals.
J Pharm Policy Pract 18(1):2482669
Authors: Khawla Abu Hammour, Qusai Al Manaseer, Mariam Abdel-Jalil, Faris El-Dahiyat, Walid Abu Hammour, Adnan M Abu Hammour, Fahmi Y Al-Ashwal, Rana Abu-Farha
Affiliations
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
- Department of Orthopedic, Faculty of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi, UAE.
- School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan. College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Science, Dubai, UAE.
- School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan.
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Science and Technology, Sana'a, Yemen.
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Al-Ayen Iraqi University, Thi-Qar, Iraq.
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.
Abstract
Background
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a significant respiratory pathogen. Despite vaccine availability, uptake remains low, and healthcare professionals play a key role in promoting immunisation. This study aims to evaluate healthcare providers' knowledge, perceptions and practices regarding the RSV vaccine.
Methods
A validated survey was distributed to healthcare professionals. The study questionnaire contained sections to assess sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge of RSV and its vaccines, healthcare professionals' perception towards RSV and its vaccines, and their perception towards the potential barriers against RSV vaccination. The last section assesses physicians' previous practice in dealing with RSV infection.
Results
Over half of the participants (56.6%) had no prior awareness of RSV, though many recognised its potential severity, particularly in vulnerable populations like children and older adults (52.6%). Awareness of FDA-approved RSV vaccines was limited, with only 28.1% of respondents familiar with vaccines intended for older adults. Views on vaccination recommendations for older age groups were divided; 23.7% supported vaccination for those 75 and older, while 31.1% advocated for vaccination in those aged 60-74 at higher risk. Perceived barriers to RSV vaccination were prominent. Most respondents (85.1%) cited concerns about vaccine safety as a key obstacle, and 81.1% identified out-of-pocket costs as a significant barrier. Testing for RSV was infrequent (24.6%), mainly due to a lack of effective treatment. Most participants (96.9%) called for greater awareness and education about RSV vaccines, and 91.2% supported recommending the vaccine if it was available and free.
Conclusion
This study reveals significant gaps in healthcare professionals' knowledge and practices regarding RSV and its vaccines, with substantial barriers to vaccine adoption. Targeted education, improved diagnostics, and addressing vaccine barriers are essential strategies for improving the healthcare response to RSV.
MeSH
Respiratory Syncytial Viruses, Vaccines, Perception, Vaccination, Viruses, Health Personnel, Education, Respiratory Syncytial Virus Vaccines