Immunization acceptance after broad recommendation for RSV prophylaxis: Results from a cross-sectional study in...

This study assessed parental acceptance of nirsevimab, a new RSV prophylaxis recommended for newborns in Germany. A cross-sectional survey was conducted at two German university hospitals during the 2024-2025 RSV season, with 519 parents completing questionnaires about their attitudes toward this immunization. Results showed moderate acceptance, with only 40.5 % of parents agreeing to nirsevimab administration, while 31.2 % were undecided and 14.3 % declined. Parents with higher education levels, greater RSV concerns, and those feeling well-informed were significantly more likely to accept the prophylaxis. The primary reasons for hesitancy included insufficient information (32.9 %), safety concerns (31.6 %), and reluctance to give injections to newborns (22.4 %). The study reveals that nirsevimab acceptance among German parents was lower than in other European countries, highlighting the need for enhanced educational campaigns. Targeted communication strategies emphasizing safety and efficacy, particularly for families with lower educational backgrounds, could improve acceptance rates and reduce infant RSV-related morbidity.