
GSK plc has partnered with Earvin “Magic” Johnson to launch Sideline RSV, a new health education campaign aimed to help older adults and their loved ones better understand the risks and potential seriousness of RSV infection and how to help protect themselves.
RSV is a common, contagious, and potentially serious respiratory virus. It is typically mild and can affect anyone, but adults at highest risk for severe RSV infection include older adults, and adults with chronic heart and lung disease. Each year approximately 177,000 adults 65 and older are hospitalized in the U.S. due to RSV and an estimated 14,000 of those cases result in death. For adults 60 and older, some data suggest that there is an increased risk for severe RSV infection that can lead to hospitalization.
Johnson will help spark important conversations and help educate around the risks of RSV among older adults.
“My health is a top priority, yet like so many others, I was unaware that older adults are one of the highest risk groups for severe RSV infection, no matter how healthy they feel,” said Johnson. “Throughout my life, I’ve learned the importance of staying up to date on potential health risks that come with aging. That’s why I’m teaming up with GSK to bring this critical RSV conversation to center court and inspire people to understand their risks to help Sideline RSV.”
The Sideline RSV campaign will include a website with a message from Johnson and information about RSV, social media content and community-focused events. In addition to Sideline RSV, Johnson will appear in a variety of educational content to highlight the risks of RSV in older adults, including those with certain underlying conditions.
“Cases of RSV in children are widely known, encouraging conversations around the risk of RSV among older adults will help increase the understanding and awareness for this group,” said Leonard Friedland, MD, vice president and director of Scientific Affairs and Public Health at GSK. “There is no vaccine or specific treatment available for RSV in older adults. If you’re an older adult, including those with certain underlying medical conditions, it’s especially important to know your risk factors for RSV and speak with a healthcare provider if you develop cold-like symptoms.”
Older adults are more likely to have severe outcomes from RSV because the immune system typically weakens as people age. Adults with certain underlying conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma or chronic heart failure (CHF) are at an increased risk of developing serious respiratory issues. RSV can exacerbate these conditions, which can lead to severe outcomes, such as pneumonia, hospitalization and death.