Keywords
Respiratory tract infections
Aged
Prevention
Vaccines
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Abstract
Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of general practitioners and geriatricians regarding infections and prevention strategies for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in individuals over 60 years of age. Methods: This cross-sectional study conducted a knowledge, attitudes, and practices survey between September 2024 and September 2025, using a virtual questionnaire developed by the researchers. Results: The sample included 53 physicians. Questions related to epidemiological and clinical knowledge about RSV were answered correctly by the majority of participants. However, a minority correctly identified the hierarchy of viruses causing Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome in Brazil and recognized that RSV leads to more intensive care unit admissions than the influenza virus. Most physicians answered five out of seven questions on immunization incorrectly, although all reported recommending RSV vaccination in both the public healthcare system and private services. Conclusion: General practitioners and geriatricians recognize the importance of RSV and demonstrate favorable attitudes toward vaccination; however, knowledge gaps persist. These limitations suggest that current medical training does not adequately address RSV as a health problem in older adults.
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