Knowledge, Perceptions and Intention of Acceptance of RSV Vaccine Amongst Women in Western Greece – A Cross-Sectional Study

Immunization of pregnant women against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) has been recently licensed for use worldwide. In this study, we aimed to assess knowledge, perceptions and potential RSV vaccine acceptance in future pregnancy in mothers of children under 2 years old attending a Tertiary hospital. Α questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted between January and May 2024 (including period of RSV peak circulation in Greek climate), at a university hospital in Greece. A total of 255 participants were enrolled during the 4-month study period. Participants were divided in three categories equally, according to their child's status as follows Admission to the ward with Respiratory tract infection (AR); casualty attendance and Discharge due to Respiratory tract infection that does not need hospitalization (DR) and Admission to the ward for Other reasons (AO), no respiratory tract infection. The majority have not received antenatal vaccination in previous pregnancies with the recommended vaccines, were not aware of RSV, and were not informed about the new RSV vaccine. Most women expressed willingness to receive antenatal vaccination against RSV in future pregnancy, following a healthcare professional's recommendation. Prior antenatal vaccination and knowledge of RSV were found to be positively associated with future vaccine acceptance. Healthcare professional recommendations could play an important role in influencing maternal attitudes toward potential vaccination. These insights underscore the importance of targeted education and communication strategies for women of reproductive age, aiming to enhance uptake of newly introduced antenatal RSV vaccine.