US healthcare professionals’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding RSV disease and vaccination in adults during the 2024–2025 RSV season

Abstract

Background Adults aged ≥60 years and adults with certain chronic medical conditions are at increased risk for severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease. However, RSV vaccine uptake in the United States (US) remains low, with limited awareness of RSV among adults and potential knowledge gaps among healthcare professionals (HCPs). This study assessed US HCP knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to RSV disease and vaccination. Methods A cross-sectional, web-based survey was administered among 700 HCPs, including primary care physicians (PCPs), specialist physicians, nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs), and pharmacists, between December 2024–January 2025. Survey questions assessed RSV disease- and vaccination-related KAP, with descriptive statistics calculated overall and by HCP type. Characteristics associated with RSV-related KAP were identified through multivariable logistic regression modeling. Results Among the 700 respondents (199 PCPs, 153 specialist physicians, 148 NPs and PAs, and 200 pharmacists), 72.3% reported being very familiar with RSV disease. However, potential knowledge gaps were identified (e.g., related to approved indications for RSV vaccines and Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices [ACIP] recommendations). HCPs commonly cited patients’ refusal or hesitation (62.3%) and patients’ lack of awareness of RSV (58.0%) as barriers to recommending and administering RSV vaccines. Although only 36.4% of HCPs reported that their workplace stocked RSV vaccine(s), 84.1% reported recommending RSV vaccines to eligible adult patients. However, RSV vaccination recommendations were not consistently implemented among all eligible adult patients. In multivariable modeling, characteristics that were significantly associated with RSV vaccination practices included familiarity with RSV disease, knowledge of ACIP recommendations, RSV vaccine stocking, and use of clinical decision supports, among other characteristics. Conclusions Potential knowledge- and practice-related gaps remain regarding adult RSV disease and vaccination among US HCPs. Continued efforts are needed to enhance RSV-related education among HCPs and ensure eligible patients are able to access RSV vaccination.