Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): Independent Community Pharmacy Impact in Promoting Prevention Through Immunization

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) typically results in mild cold-like symptoms; however, it can lead to severe complications and hospitalization in patients who are 60 years of age and older with long-term health conditions.

The aim of this study was to assess patient knowledge about RSV and to provide patients with information about the virus and the vaccination.

A multisite cross-sectional pilot study was conducted from September 12, 2023, to March 11, 2024, in the independent community pharmacy setting. Included were all patients aged 60 years and older who consented to filling out the 14-question survey. Excluded were patients who declined to take the survey. Patients completed the survey either on paper or electronically, and the survey included initial consent, demographic information, past medical history, knowledge of RSV, consent to vaccine administration, and reasons for refusal, if applicable. At the end of the survey, patients could consent to vaccine administration onsite and were provided with an educational handout.

The primary outcome revealed that 78% of participants had not received any education from their healthcare provider about RSV. Additionally, 70% correctly identified ways RSV might spread, 60% reported knowing how to protect themselves, and 58% correctly indicated that a previous RSV infection does not provide immunity. As for the secondary outcomes, 63% of participants consented to receive the vaccine on the day of the survey.

The study underscores the critical role of community pharmacies in healthcare delivery and the need for enhanced educational efforts to support vaccination programs.