"We've wanted to vaccinate against it and now we can": views of respiratory syncytial virus disease and immunisation held by caregivers of Aboriginal children in Perth, Western Australia.

Abstract

Objective: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of respiratory infection with a higher burden in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander infants and children. We conducted a pilot qualitative study identifying disease knowledge and willingness to immunise following the changing immunisation landscape for infant RSV in 2024.

Methods: Yarning groups were held with a convenience sample of parents/carers of Aboriginal children attending playgroup at a metropolitan Aboriginal Health Service in Western Australia. Data collected in the form of notes were thematically analysed.

Results: We heard from nine parents/carers over two yarns in March/April 2024. Level of RSV awareness largely depended on lived experience of an RSV infection with some participants only first hearing of RSV following announcement of the immunisation program. Most participants were willing to accept immunisation. There was a strong preference for information on disease and immunisation safety coming from a 'trusted Aboriginal voice', but the level of information varied.

Conclusions: This pilot study provides initial insights into community views of RSV disease and immunisation. More RSV disease awareness is needed in the Indigenous community.

Implications for public health: These findings will help inform current and future RSV immunisation programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations.