https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9486-9473
ABSTRACT
This correspondence discusses on res awpiratory syncytial virus areness, risk perception and causes. Important limitations and possible furture direction for researching are mentioned.
Dear Editor, we found that the article on “RSV awareness, risk perception, causes, and terms: Perspectives of pregnant and lactating women in Kenya to inform demand generation efforts for maternal RSV vaccinesCitation1” is interesting. The purpose of this study was to find out what pregnant and lactating women in Kenya thought about respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) awareness, risk perception, causes, and terminology. The findings were intended to help drive demand for maternal RSV vaccinations. To collect data from participants, the study used qualitative methods such as focus group discussions and interviews. The findings provide light on the participants’ knowledge, views, and comprehension of RSV, pointing to prospective areas for targeted education and communication efforts. The study focused on pregnant and breastfeeding women in Kenya to better understand their opinions on RSV. This is important because these moms play an important role in protecting their infants from RSV infection. The qualitative technique enabled an in-depth investigation of the participants’ experiences and beliefs, yielding rich data for the study’s objectives. The data can be utilized to create personalized interventions and educational materials to raise RSV awareness and enhance maternal RSV vaccine uptake.
The study’s findings may be limited in generalizability because the sample was limited to pregnant and breastfeeding mothers in Kenya. Women from different areas or ethnic origins may have different viewpoints and experiences. Furthermore, the study relied on self-reported data, which could be influenced by recall or social desirability bias. Future research should broaden the scope of the study to include a more diverse population and explore the viewpoints of healthcare providers and other stakeholders to solve the gaps and progress the field. Quantitative research can supplement qualitative findings by providing a more complete picture of RSV awareness and risk perception among pregnant and breastfeeding women. Longitudinal studies can evaluate the efficacy of specific interventions in improving RSV vaccine uptake and lowering RSV morbidity and mortality. Collaboration with governments and healthcare institutions can also aid in translating research findings into meaningful RSV prevention and control strategies.Citation2
Authors’ contribution
SW 50% ideas, writing, analyzing, approval.
VW 50% ideas, supervision, approval.
Disclosure statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Additional information
Funding
References
- Limaye RJ, Fesshaye B, Singh P, Karron RA. RSV awareness, risk perception, causes, and terms: perspectives of pregnant and lactating women in Kenya to inform demand generation efforts for maternal RSV vaccines. Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2023 Aug;19(2):2258580. doi:10.1080/21645515.2023.2258580.
- Wiwanitkit V. New respiratory virus (chicken pox, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus) vaccines: efficacy, necessity and policy for the tropical world at present. Hum Vaccin. 2009 Sep;5(9):621–1. doi:10.4161/hv.8516.