Health information sources show links to RSV vaccination among older adults in Japan

by Osaka Metropolitan University

edited by Sadie Harley, reviewed by Andrew Zinin

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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) causes substantial morbidity among older adults; however, RSV vaccination remains limited in Japan. Identifying effective information channels to promote RSV vaccination is particularly important in the post-COVID-19 era.

An Osaka Metropolitan University–led research team conducted a nationwide, cross-sectional online survey in Japan among adults aged ≥60 years. The analysis examined associations between RSV vaccination status and medical information sources, knowledge regarding RSV infection and vaccination and prior vaccination history.

The paper is published in the journal Respiratory Investigation.

Among the 8,300 participants, RSV vaccination uptake was 4.2%. Individuals who received the RSV vaccine more frequently reported obtaining information from interpersonal or institution-based sources, including health care professionals and workplaces or schools, as well as from media-based sources such as academic websites, LINE and magazines.

RSV vaccination was positively associated with knowing that older adults are eligible for RSV vaccination, as well as with prior vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, influenza and pneumococcal disease.

RSV vaccination in older adults in Japan is associated with specific interpersonal and media-based sources of information. Recommendations from health care professionals may support individualized vaccination promotion, particularly among individuals with a prior vaccination history, whereas push-based information channels such as LINE may be useful for population-level dissemination of RSV-related knowledge.

More information

Masaya Tsutsumi et al., Association between respiratory syncytial virus vaccination and medical information sources among Japanese older adults in the post-COVID-19 era: a JACSIS 2024 cross-sectional study, Respiratory Investigation (2026). DOI: 10.1016/j.resinv.2026.101475

Key medical concepts

Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infections

Clinical categories

Common illnesses & PreventionPulmonary medicinePreventive medicineHealthy aging Provided by Osaka Metropolitan University Who's behind this story?

Sadie Harley

BSc Life Sciences & Ecology. Microbiology lab background with pharmaceutical news experience in oil, gas, and renewable industries. Full profile →

Andrew Zinin

Master's in physics with research experience. Long-time science news enthusiast. Plays key role in Science X's editorial success. Full profile →

Citation: Health information sources show links to RSV vaccination among older adults in Japan (2026, October 15) retrieved 15 October 2026 from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2026-10-health-sources-links-rsv-vaccination.html This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.