Intention to Use RSVpreF Vaccine or Nirsevimab to Prevent Infant RSV Among Pregnant Individuals.

Background: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of hospitalization among infants in the United States. While 2 new immunization products have been developed to prevent RSV in infants-RSVpreF vaccine (a prefusion F protein-based vaccine for pregnant individuals) and nirsevimab (a monoclonal antibody for infants)-intended uptake of these products is unclear. Our objective was to evaluate intended uptake of each product and their correlates among pregnant individuals.

Methods: We conducted a nationally representative survey of pregnant individuals weighted to the US population of births between September 20 and October 3, 2023. Primary outcomes included whether each participant intended to receive RSVpreF vaccine during pregnancy or immunize their infant with nirsevimab; beliefs about product safety, effectiveness and importance; and reasons for hesitancy. We used logistic regression to identify correlates of intent and product support, controlling for sociodemographic characteristics, political orientation and psychological dispositions.

Results: Nearly 45% of participants intended to receive RSVpreF vaccine during their pregnancy, and 51% of participants intended to give their infants nirsevimab; 41% did not intend to use either product. Intention to use RSVpreF vaccine or nirsevimab was higher among those who were previously aware of the products and who viewed each product as safe, effective and important. Common reasons for hesitancy included concerns about side effects, impacts on infants and the immunizations being too new.

Conclusions: Health communication interventions that increase awareness about RSV immunizations and highlight their safety, effectiveness and importance are needed to increase intended uptake.