Sideline RSV Campaign highlights prevention options
Senior Games athletes show that even the strongest competitors can be sidelined by RSV.
RSV is a common, contagious, and potentially serious respiratory illness that typically circulates in the fall and winter in most parts of the U.S.
While many are aware of the impact RSV can have on infants, adults 75 and older and those 50 to 74 with certain underlying conditions are at increased risk of severe RSV infection, which can lead to hospitalization or even death.
“Thinking I needed breathing treatment for my asthma turned into violent coughing, trip to the ER–actually two trips to the ER in less than a week–to get my oxygen levels back up, and just three weeks of just flat out just knocking me out. It was a horrible experience,” said Michael, National Senior Games Athlete.
These athletes each have a personal connection to RSV and have joined the campaign to tell their stories in a television special hosted by Angela Bassett, redefining aging with senior athletes, airing nationwide this fall.
“We need to protect our health and fortunately, there are a number of vaccines now available that can help protect against RSV, and vaccination is our best tool to help protect us as we get older due to infections with RSV,” said Dr. Leonard Friedland, vice president and director of scientific affairs and public health for GSK.
This RSV Awareness Month, GSK is teaming up with senior athletes from the National Senior Games, an Olympic-style, multi-sport event, as part of the Sideline RSV Campaign to encourage older adults to understand their risks and take action to help prevent RSV.
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