Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and RSV vaccines were not well known to 60% of persons over 50, according to a recent NORC survey at the University of Chicago. Given the probable threat of a “tripledemic” in the upcoming autumn and winter seasons, this lack of understanding offers a serious public health concern. For older persons to grasp the dangers and advantages of RSV and its preventive measures, it is critical to address vaccine hesitancy and improve public health messaging.
RSV and the RSV vaccine, which are intended to lessen its effects, are not widely known among persons 50 and older, according to recent data from NORC at the University of Chicago. In a summer poll of more than 1,000 people in this age bracket, around 60% of participants had little to no understanding of RSV itself, and an even more frightening 70% were not aware that there are RSV vaccines available that are advised by professionals to prevent another severe RSV season.
RSV is a respiratory illness, often presenting as mild cold symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and labored breathing. While it might be a minor concern for most individuals during cold and flu seasons, RSV can have devastating consequences for those with specific underlying health conditions, infants, and older adults.
With two consecutive strenuous RSV seasons, the United States now possesses an essential tool: an RSV vaccine tailored for older adults. Nevertheless, this survey highlights the limited awareness among older adults regarding both the vaccine and the virus itself.
These findings cut across demographic factors such as gender, race/ethnicity, education, and income, emphasizing the need for enhanced public health messaging and patient outreach. Neha Trivedi, a research scientist at NORC and the lead analyst of the data, stressed the urgency of the situation, particularly as the fall and winter seasons approach, potentially bringing a “tripledemic” of RSV, flu, and COVID-19.
Trivedi emphasized the importance of increasing awareness about these health threats, available vaccines, and preventive measures such as hand hygiene, staying home when unwell, and practicing proper cough etiquette.
Additionally, healthcare and public health leaders must address vaccine hesitancy among older adults, which currently affects about three-quarters of this population. Among these individuals, 43 percent cited concerns about vaccine side effects, 38 percent worried about vaccine development and approval processes, and 30 percent believed they would not become seriously ill from RSV.
Amelia Burke-Garcia, director of Digital Strategy and Outreach for NORC’s Public Health department, noted the unique opportunity to communicate with older adults about RSV and the new vaccine. She called for increased efforts from providers, pharmacists, and public health professionals to educate and inform older adults about RSV risks and the availability of the vaccine.
