Factors influencing acceptance of RSV immunization for newborns among pregnant individuals: A mixed-methods study.
Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory infections and hospitalizations in Canadian infants. Recently, Health Canada approved two novel immunizing products: a vaccine given during pregnancy and a monoclonal antibody for infants. This study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and intentions regarding RSV and its prevention among pregnant individuals.
Methods: A mixed-methods study was conducted in Quebec from October to December 2023. Pregnant individuals were recruited through targeted Facebook advertisements. Data were collected in two phases: Phase 1 involved an online survey to assess knowledge of RSV, attitudes toward immunization, and intentions regarding both immunization products, followed by qualitative interviews in Phase 2 to explore factors impacting decision-making and preferences for RSV prevention. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics; interview data were analyzed through thematic analysis.
Results: Among survey participants (n = 803), 68.4 % reported some knowledge of RSV. Intention for both immunization products was high, with 88.1 % of participants willing to receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy and 92 %, to administer monoclonal antibodies to their infants. A majority (69 %) of participants preferred vaccination during pregnancy over monoclonal antibodies. The desire to protect their infant from severe RSV complications was a key motivating factor of acceptance of new RSV immunizing products. Other key determinants included vaccine safety, efficacy, and recommendations by healthcare providers. Qualitative interviews (n = 25) highlighted safety concerns of expectant parents about these new products. The importance of clear and evidence-based recommendations by healthcare providers was also emphasized.
Conclusions: Pregnant individuals demonstrated a high level of interest in RSV immunization for infants, whether with vaccination during pregnancy or with monoclonal antibodies. Recommendations by healthcare providers and availability of information on the safety and efficacy of these new products will be key to move from intention to action.