Impact of Child Respiratory Syncytial Virus-Confirmed Infections on Caregivers in Japan: A Web-Based Survey

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Despite being the leading cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections in infants, the impact of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) on the caregivers of infected children remains largely unexplored. This study is the first in Japan to examine the psychological, social, and economic burdens on caregivers of infants infected with RSV. Methods: An online questionnaire survey was used to understand the circumstances surrounding RSV infection and the psychological, social, and economic burdens on caregivers. Equal numbers of infants aged either <6 or ≥6 months were enrolled. Results: A total of 606 caregivers were included in the final analysis. Notably, 36.1% of the infants were hospitalized. Most caregivers (91.4%) felt anxious about their infants’ RSV infection, and more than half (55.8%) answered that their anxiety interfered with their daily lives. Caregivers whose daily routines were disrupted due to concerns about RSV infection were more likely to hospitalize infants, particularly for extended stays. Infection significantly affected family dynamics, hindering normal daily activities and escalating stress, which in turn led to conflicts and arguments among family members (30.4%). Regarding the financial burden, most caregivers incurred medical expenses (34.2%). Additionally, 76.9% of caregivers expressed interest in the hypothetical RSV vaccination. Conclusions: In Japan, caregivers of infants with RSV experience had significant psychological burden regardless of whether the treatment is outpatient or inpatient. In addition, a non-negligible proportion of caregivers suffer from societal and economic burdens. This study lays the groundwork for all stakeholders to fully comprehend the comprehensive disease burden of child RSV infections.