Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards pneumococcal vaccines among adults in the United States.

Objectives: The attitudes and perceptions of healthcare consumers (HCCs) are increasingly becoming more relevant in decision-making with healthcare providers and incorporated into healthcare decision-making by national immunization technical advisory groups and health technology assessment agencies. With newer pneumococcal vaccine options available, HCCs' attitudes and perceptions play a key role in gauging potential acceptance. The objective of this study was to assess HCCs' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions toward pneumococcal vaccines for adults.

Methods: Between March and May 2024, eligible U.S. adult HCCs were invited to participate in an online survey focusing on experiences and attitudes toward vaccines.

Results: Among 141 participating HCCs, average age was 53.1 years. The majority of participants were male (51.1%) and 64.5% identified as White. Most HCCs received at least one vaccine in the past year (81.6%). HCCs most often received vaccines at medical offices and pharmacies. HCCs supported lowering the age-based pneumococcal vaccine recommendation to all adults 50 years and older and were willing to receive a supplemental pneumococcal vaccine dose following completion of the recommended series for additional protection.

Conclusions: These findings indicate that new adult pneumococcal vaccines would be accepted and valued by HCCs if recommended by HCPs.