Magic Leads RSV Prevention Fast-Break

GSK and the YMCA today announced they are hosting GSK's Sideline RSV "Community Conversations" event series to raise awareness about respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in older adults.

This is an essential event since the U.S. CDC issued a Health Advisory on September 5, 2023, regarding the 2023-2024 RSV season. 

The events will occur at four YMCA locations in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, and Phoenix, joined by GSK's campaign spokesperson Earvin "Magic" Johnson Jr., to help spark important conversations about RSV.

Kicking off in September 2023 and running through RSV Awareness Month in October, the private events will include perspectives from medical professionals and patients and convene public health leaders, media, and 60+ YMCA members.

"As a dedicated public health advocate, I'm excited to be able to visit older adults in their communities to talk about their risk for RSV infection," said Johnson in a press release.

"Like many of us, and being over 60 myself, I used to be unaware of RSV's effect on older adults."

"Now, I'm passionate about educating others and encouraging them to understand their risks and be proactive about their health."

For older adults, data suggest an increased risk for severe RSV infection that can lead to hospitalization.

RSV can exacerbate certain underlying medical conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and chronic heart failure, and can lead to severe outcomes, such as pneumonia, hospitalization, and death.

As of September 6, 2023, two RSV vaccines were approved by the U.S. FDA.

To learn more, visit www.SidelineRSV.com. 

Earvin Johnson played for Michigan State in college in 1979, then for the Los Angeles Lakers, winning numerous championships.