Arr, Travis Kelce be talkin' 'bout Pfizer's elixir, makin' waves 'mongst the scallywags 'bout COVID vaccination. Avast!
2023-10-12
Arrr, mateys! The likes o' Travis Kelce, a Kansas City Chiefs star, be joinin' forces with Pfizer, a mighty pharmaceutical giant. This union be causin' quite a stir amongst the crew, sparkin' a fierce debate 'bout the message 'n safety o' the COVID-19 vaccine. Yo ho ho!
Kansas City Chiefs player Travis Kelce has recently been in the spotlight for his partnership with Pfizer in a commercial promoting COVID-19 and flu vaccines. This led to New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, a vocal opponent of the vaccine, to nickname him "Mr. Pfizer." Kelce responded to the nickname during a press conference, stating that he got the vaccine to keep himself and his family safe.Behind the playful banter between these NFL stars, there is a deliberate messaging strategy at play. Christopher Morse, a professor of communication, explains that many people are tired of COVID-19 and resistant to the idea of getting vaccinated again. Traditional advertising methods may not be effective in this context, so Pfizer chose to use a "carrot versus stick" approach in their commercial featuring Kelce. They emphasize that people can get their COVID-19 vaccine while getting their flu shot, making it a convenient and easy process.
Morse also suggests that using athletes like Kelce to deliver the message is more impactful than using traditional celebrities. People are more protective and private about their health, so having a relatable figure promote the vaccine may be more persuasive.
The responses from both Rodgers and Kelce represent different sides of the vaccine debate. Fox News medical contributor Dr. Marc Siegel acknowledges that the vaccines are not perfect but emphasizes their safety and efficacy. He believes that the choice to be vaccinated should be respected, but he appreciates Kelce's role in promoting the vaccine as a counterbalance to Rodgers' views.
Rodgers has expressed interest in debating Kelce on the topic, but ultimately, the goal is to start a conversation rather than engage in a war. The potential debate could generate significant attention and ratings.
Overall, the commercial featuring Kelce serves as a humorous and relatable way to encourage vaccination and address the fatigue surrounding COVID-19.