Taiwanese parental perspectives on RSV: knowledge, risks, and acceptance toward immunization.

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Limited parental understanding of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in Taiwan contrasts with the availability of new preventive measures like long-acting monoclonal antibodies for infants.
• Existing awareness of other common pediatric infections like influenza and enterovirus is significantly higher than that of RSV among parents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess Taiwanese parents' knowledge of RSV, their perceptions of its risk and severity, and their willingness to immunize infants with RSV monoclonal antibodies (mAbs).
• To identify factors influencing RSV knowledge and willingness to adopt infant immunization strategies.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted in late 2023 with 300 expectant mothers and parents of infants (0-12 months) in Taiwan.
• The survey assessed knowledge of RSV versus other pediatric infections, perceived disease risk/severity, and likelihood of infant immunization with RSV mAbs.
• Statistical analysis explored correlations between demographic factors, prior vaccination experience, and RSV awareness/willingness.

Main Results:

• Only 38% of respondents demonstrated basic knowledge of RSV, compared to over 90% for influenza and enterovirus.
• RSV risk and severity were perceived as moderate, lower than pneumonia; first-time expectant mothers showed the least awareness.
• After receiving information, the mean willingness score for infant RSV immunization was 6/10, with 30% being very willing (score ≥ 8).
• Prior experience with non-mandatory vaccines correlated with higher RSV knowledge; full-time employment was linked to lower knowledge but higher willingness post-information.

Conclusions:

• Significant awareness gaps regarding RSV exist among Taiwanese parents, potentially hindering the uptake of new infant immunization options.
• While openness to infant RSV immunization is present, targeted educational campaigns are crucial, especially for expectant parents.
• Clarifying the specifics of infant RSV immunization is essential to facilitate parental acceptance and improve preventive measure adoption.