Community Pharmacies Play a Pivotal Role in Boosting RSV Vaccine Uptake in Older Adults
Despite its prevalence and the availability of a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) vaccine approved in May 2023, awareness of RSV and its vaccine remains limited. Community pharmacies have the potential to play a pivotal role in addressing this knowledge gap, according to a study published in the Journal of Pharmacy Technology.
RSV typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can sometimes lead to severe complications, particularly in adult patients aged 60 and older with chronic conditions. Approximately 60 000 to 160 000 older adults are hospitalized annually in the US due to RSV, with 10 000 deaths. The vaccine for RSV has demonstrated strong efficacy among at-risk population of adults; however, vaccine hesitancy and miseducation have contributed to low vaccination rates.
This study aimed to assess patient knowledge of RSV, its transmission, and the vaccine while offering educational resources and vaccination opportunities. It was conducted across 4 independent community pharmacies from September 2023 to March 2024 and included 518 participants aged 60 and older. Participants completed a 14-question survey that collected demographic data, medical history, and knowledge of RSV.
The study revealed numerous gaps in patient education about RSV. Among participants, 78% reported receiving no prior education from health care providers about RSV. Seventy percent of participants understood RSV transmission, however, only 60% were aware of protective measures, and 58% knew that previous infection does not confer immunity. The primary reasons for vaccine refusal among participants included recent vaccination, perceived lack of necessity, and concerns about potential side effects.
Community pharmacies played a crucial role in educating participants. With pharmacist-led education, 63% of participants consented to a vaccination on the day of the survey, compared with a 16% vaccination rate in traditional medical settings.
These findings underscore the role of community pharmacies in addressing gaps in patient education about RSV and improving vaccination rates. The integration of pharmacist-led education, patient counseling, and immediate vaccination opportunities proved effective in combatting miseducation. Researchers recommend equipping pharmacists with educational tools and resources to educate patients about RSV, leveraging community pharmacies as hubs for vaccine education and administration, and developing targeted materials to address common concerns.
“This study emphasizes the critical role of a community pharmacist in healthcare delivery and the need for enhanced educational efforts to support vaccination programs and shared clinical healthcare decision making,” the researchers concluded.
Reference
Vascimini A, Deravi M, Perez G, et al. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV): independent community pharmacy impact in promoting prevention through immunization. J Pharm Technol. Published online October 19, 2024. doi:10.1177/87551225241285324.
