Raising the Stakes With Earvin “Magic” Johnson

Magic Johnson talking to Dr. Len Friedland

Len Friedland, MD

VP and Director of Scientific Affairs & Public Health at GSK

Earvin “Magic” Johnson

Compensated by GSK for his participation in this program

EARVIN “MAGIC” JOHNSON HIGHLIGHTS THE RISK RSV MAY POSE TO OLDER ADULTS WITH DR. LEN FRIEDLAND

Earvin “Magic” Johnson is one of basketball’s all-time greatest players—and that’s just one facet of his extraordinary career.

Mr. Johnson is also renowned for his advocacy, creating opportunities in communities of color and serving as a powerful voice for increased understanding of RSV.

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One-On-One: Highlighting the risks of RSV for older adults

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Fast Break: Understanding RSV and underlying conditions

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Full-Court Press: Emphasizing the importance of vaccinations in communities of color

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Game Time: Having effective conversations about RSV with patients

Magic Johnson talking to Dr. Len Friedland

Len Friedland, MD

VP and Director of Scientific Affairs & Public Health at GSK

Earvin “Magic” Johnson

Compensated by GSK for his participation in this program

one on one

  • Video transcript

    Text on screen

    ONE-ON-ONE WITH MAGIC JOHNSON

    Identifying the Risks of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

    Magic

    Alright, Doctor. Give it to me straight now. This RSV that’s been all over the news lately—is it something I should be concerned about?

    Text on screen

    Earvin “Magic” Johnson
    Compensated by GSK for his participation in this program

    Doctor

    Well, RSV is a common and contagious virus, but it can cause more severe infections that may lead to hospitalizations in adults aged 60 years and older.1-3

    Text on screen

    Len Friedland, MD
    VP and Director of Scientific Affairs & Public Health at GSK

    Magic

    Hmmm.

    Doctor

    Let me put it like this to you, Magic. Can you make a layup?

    Magic

    A layup? No problem.

    Doctor

    No problem. Exactly. That’s how RSV is for most adults. They’re likely to experience mild, cold-like symptoms, similar to what you’d expect from an upper respiratory tract infection.4

    Magic

    Got it. So, for adults aged 60 and older?

    Doctor

    Some older adults and adults with certain underlying conditions are at high risk for having symptoms consistent with a lower respiratory tract infection, such as pneumonia.2,3

    Magic

    Are we raising the stakes?

    Doctor

    You guessed it.

    Text on screen

    Adults 60 years of age and older can develop more severe RSV infections leading to hospitalization.4

    Doctor

    You think you can make it from half-court?

    Magic

    Now you’re challenging me. But you gotta remember, Dr. Len, I did make a buzzer beater from 84 feet in the playoff.

    Doctor

    Not bad. RSV can be really challenging to these patients. That’s why it’s important for doctors to raise awareness, including information on symptoms and disease progression in high-risk patients.

    Magic

    Wow, thanks for breaking it down for me. You know what? You’re really good.

    Doctor

    Well, if you’re going to go one-on-one with Magic to raise awareness for RSV, you’ve got to bring your A game.

    Magic

    You sure you’ve got an A game?

    Doctor

    Absolutely.

    Magic

    You positive?

    Doctor

    For sure.

    Magic

    Okay, cool.

    Text on screen

    References: 1. Increased interseasonal respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) activity in parts of the southern United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. June 10, 2021. Accessed June 29, 2022. https://emergency.cdc.gov/han/2021/han00443.asp 2. Tseng HF, Sy LS, Ackerson B, et al. Severe morbidity and short- and mid- to long-term mortality in older adults hospitalized with respiratory syncytial virus infection. J Infect Dis. 2020;222(8):1298-1310. doi:10.1093/infdis/jiaa361 3. Belongia EA, King JP, Kieke BA, et al. Clinical features, severity, and incidence of RSV illness during 12 consecutive seasons in a community cohort of adults ≥60 years old. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2018;5(12):ofy316. doi:10.1093/ofid/ofy316 4. Respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV). For healthcare providers. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated October 2022. Accessed October 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/clinical/index.html#clinical

    Intended for US healthcare professionals only.
    Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies.
    ©2023 GSK or licensor.
    RSAVID230018 May 2023
    Produced in USA.

ONE-ON-ONE

In this introductory video, Earvin “Magic” Johnson displays his skills on the court while Dr. Friedland reminds us of some key points about RSV. Using a basketball analogy, Dr. Friedland relays that RSV is a common and contagious virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can pose a risk of hospitalization and death for adults aged 60 years and older.1-4

fast break

  • Video transcript

    Text on screen

    FAST BREAK WITH MAGIC JOHNSON
    Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Comorbidities

    Magic

    Okay, Doc, let’s take on RSV and underlying conditions.

    Text on screen

    Earvin “Magic” Johnson
    Compensated by GSK for his participation in this program

    Doctor

    Absolutely. Let’s raise the stakes and give ourselves a 60-second shot clock.

    Text on screen

    Len Friedland, MD
    VP and Director of Scientific Affairs & Public Health at GSK

    Doctor

    When talking about high-risk patients, it’s important to recognize those who are aged 60 years and older and adults with certain underlying conditions.1,2

    Magic

    Okay, set the stage for me.

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    Adults 60 years of age and older can develop more severe RSV infections leading to hospitalization.2,3

    Doctor

    When you have age or certain underlying conditions working against you, you’re the underdog.

    Magic

    That’s tough. Are there conditions that increase the risk?

    Doctor

    Older adults with certain underlying conditions, like asthma, COPD, and congestive heart failure, can face increased risk of severe RSV infection.1

    Magic

    I’m sure a lot of people have those conditions. Are we talking bad cold, or are they being hospitalized?

    Doctor

    While most people will experience mild, cold-like symptoms and will recover in a week or two, these adults may be at risk for hospitalization or even death.1,4,5 Additionally, there are data to suggest that there may be increased hospitalizations in those with diabetes.6

    Magic

    Wow, honestly, I didn’t expect that with RSV. Doctors have to get their patients the information and guidance they need before RSV infection takes the lead.

    Doctor

    Especially when stakes are this high.

    Doctor

    Speaking of timing.

    Magic

    Hey, you got this, man.

    Doctor

    No, I don’t.

    Text on screen

    References: 1. Respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV). For healthcare providers. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated October 2022. Accessed October 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/clinical/index.html#clinical 2. Tseng HF, Sy LS, Ackerson B, et al. Severe morbidity and short- and mid- to long-term mortality in older adults hospitalized with respiratory syncytial virus infection. J Infect Dis. 2020;222(8):1298-1310. doi:10.1093/infdis/jiaa361 3. Belongia EA, King JP, Kieke BA, et al. Clinical features, severity, and incidence of RSV illness during 12 consecutive seasons in a community cohort of adults ≥60 years old. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2018;5(12):ofy316. doi:10.1093/ofid/ofy316 4. Falsey AR, Hennessey PA, Formica MA, Cox C, Walsh EE. Respiratory syncytial virus infection in elderly and high-risk adults. N Engl J Med. 2005;352(17):1749-1759. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa043951 5. Respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV): symptoms and care. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Updated September 24, 2021. Accessed June 29, 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/about/symptoms.html 6. Branche AR, Saiman L, Walsh EE, et al. Incidence of respiratory syncytial virus infection among hospitalized adults, 2017–2020. Clin Infect Dis. 2022;74(6):1004-1011. doi:10.1093/cid/ciab595

    Intended for US healthcare professionals only.
    Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies.
    ©2023 GSK or licensor.
    RSAVID230019 May 2023
    Produced in USA

FAST BREAK

Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Dr. Friedland set the shot clock to 60 seconds for a rapid-fire overview of the risk severe RSV infection poses for patients with certain underlying conditions, such as asthma, COPD, and congestive heart failure.5

Vaccination in Communities of Color

HISTORICALLY, COMMUNITIES OF COLOR HAVE EXPERIENCED DISPARITIES IN HEALTH OUTCOMES COMPARED TO OTHER AMERICANS6,7

Many factors have been identified as possible causes for these disparities, but we know two strategies to bridge the gap are: meaningful education and effective outreach to the community. Targeted outreach delivered by trusted leaders, healthcare professionals, and community organizations can effectively bring life-saving information to historically underserved communities of color.8

full court press

  • Video transcript

    Text on screen

    FULL-COURT PRESS WITH MAGIC JOHNSON
    Bringing Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Awareness to Communities of Color

    Doctor

    Magic, you know what it’s like when the season is on the line. And when it’s RSV season, getting information to every community is going to be crucial.

    Text on screen

    Len Friedland, MD
    VP and Director of Scientific Affairs & Public Health at GSK

    Magic

    And as you know, I do a lot of work with communities of color, and I know there are a lot of people in our communities who are hesitant to get vaccinations for all sorts of different reasons. How do you overcome those barriers to make sure the appropriate older adults are informed enough to receive RSV vaccination?

    Doctor

    I worry about underrepresented communities the most. Now, let’s set up a shot.

    Text on screen

    Earvin “Magic” Johnson
    Compensated by GSK for his participation in this program

    Doctor

    Think: you have the best shot-blockers all around you.

    Magic

    Wow, I get it. So you deal with your own blocks every day?

    Doctor

    I do. Whether it’s past history or misinformation, people have real concerns.

    Magic

    So, how do we help them understand?

    Doctor

    First, it’s about finding out why they’re feeling that way.

    Magic

    Mhm.

    Doctor

    And then coming from a place of empathy and understanding.

    Magic

    Doctor Len, that’s a slam dunk there. For communities of color, it’s so important for us to feel like our concerns are addressed and we get the right information about RSV vaccination. Doctors have to deliver awareness in a way that builds trust and provides guidance.

    Doctor

    I never want a patient to do something they’re not comfortable with. I want to empower them to make their own decisions. And I train my staff to treat everyone the same way.

    Magic

    I know underrepresented communities have higher rates of illness across other health conditions.1
    We don’t want there to be a disparity among those who are vaccinated and those who are not.

    Doctor

    The ball’s in our court. We as their peers, doctors, or colleagues. When it comes to preventing RSV, sometimes it takes an all-out effort by the entire team.

    Magic

    That makes all the difference.

    Doctor

    That is the truth.

    Magic

    Yes, sir.

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    Reference: 1. Cunningham TJ, Croft JB, Liu Y, Lu H, Eke PI, Giles WH. Vital signs: racial disparities in age-specific mortality among Blacks or African Americans — United States, 1999–2015. MMWR. 2017;66(17):444–456. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm6617e1

    Intended for US healthcare professionals only.
    Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies.
    ©2023 GSK or licensor.
    RSAVID230021 May 2023
    Produced in USA.

FULL-COURT PRESS

Earvin “Magic” Johnson emphasizes the importance of honest communication in this candid conversation with Dr. Friedland about potential barriers to vaccination in communities of color.

Follow the Game Plan for having effective conversations with your patients about RSV infection

game time

  • Video transcript

    Text on screen

    GAME TIME WITH MAGIC JOHNSON
    Enhancing Patient-Doctor Conversations About Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

    Magic

    One thing that sets winning teams apart is clear communication.

    Text on screen

    Earvin “Magic” Johnson
    Compensated by GSK for his participation in this program

    Doctor

    That is absolutely true.

    Magic

    So, what advice do you give doctors about having meaningful conversations about RSV?

    Doctor

    I’d say that falls into my court. I like to think of the doctor as a point guard, setting up the big plays for their patients.

    Text on screen

    Len Friedland, MD
    VP and Director of Scientific Affairs & Public Health at GSK

    Magic

    This may be your court, but you’re still speaking my language. So, how do we have an effective conversation?

    Doctor

    Four specific things. First, Call the Play.

    Magic

    Okay.

    Doctor

    Doctors have to have specific conversations with each of their patients.

    Magic

    As a patient, I would really want to know what my risks are and what I can do to prevent RSV infection.

    Doctor

    Exactly. Next, Huddle. If a patient is hesitant about vaccination, someone from their staff should take the time to listen to their concerns.

    Magic

    I hear that. I’ve found that having an honest conversation with a professional they trust is key for patients.

    Doctor

    Exactly. Clear communication makes all the difference. Then, Assist. Help appropriate patients find ways to get vaccinated. Most often, the best route is through a local pharmacy.

    Magic

    When doctors are clear about what needs to happen, patients can then make their next move.

    Doctor

    That’s right. And, finally, Rebound. Follow up with the patient to make sure they receive their RSV vaccination.

    Magic

    Oh, yeah. That’s a shot we can’t miss. And Doctor Len, thank you for coming today and talking to us.

    Doctor

    Well, Magic, I want to thank you because you’re bringing this RSV conversation center court.

    Magic

    Now it’s time for us to go one-on-one. See my hand, see that? Look, look how big my hand is.

    Text on screen

    Intended for US healthcare professionals only.
    Trademarks are owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies.
    ©2023 GSK or licensor.
    RSAVID230020 May 2023
    Produced in USA.

GAME TIME

How can you make conversations about RSV as meaningful as possible for your patients? Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Dr. Friedland share four specific strategies.

GAME PLAN

Four specific strategies for an effective conversation:

Step 1 icon

Call the Play

Tailor conversations to the specific needs of each patient

Step 2 icon

Huddle

Listen to patients’ concerns about vaccination

Step 3 icon

Assist

Help appropriate patients find ways to get vaccinated

Step 4 icon

Rebound

Follow up with patients to ensure they received their vaccination

COPD=chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; RSV=respiratory syncytial virus.

Next: Resources

References:

1. Mesa-Frias M, Rossi C, Emond B, et al. Incidence and economic burden of respiratory syncytial virus among adults in the United States: a retrospective analysis using 2 insurance claims databases. J Manag Care Spec Pharm. 2022;28(7):753-765. doi:10.18553/jmcp.2022.21459 2. RSV in older adults and adults with chronic medical conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed August 22, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/high-risk/older-adults.html 3. Falsey AR, Hennessey PA, Formica MA, Cox C, Walsh EE. Respiratory syncytial virus infection in elderly and high-risk adults. N Engl J Med. 2005;352(17):1749-1759. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa043951 4. Havers F. Epidemiology and burden of respiratory syncytial virus in older adults in the U.S. Presented at: Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices; June 23, 2022; Atlanta, GA. 5. Respiratory syncytial virus infection (RSV). For healthcare providers. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed June 30, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/rsv/clinical/index.html#clinical 6. Cunningham TJ, Croft JB, Liu Y, Lu H, Eke PI, Giles WH. Vital signs: racial disparities in age-specific mortality among Blacks or African Americans — United States, 1999–2015. MMWR. 2017;66(17):444-456. doi:10.15585/mmwr.mm6617e1 7. Prins W, Butcher E, Hall LL, Puckrein G, Rosof B. Improving adult immunization equity: where do the published research literature and existing resources lead? Vaccine. 2017;35(23):3020-3025. doi:10.1016/j.vaccine.2017.02.016 8. Dada D, Djiometio JN, McFadden SM, et al. Strategies that promote equity in COVID-19 vaccine uptake for black communities: a review. J Urban Health. 2022;99(1):15-27. doi:10.1007/s11524-021-00594-3