Needle Phobia and the COVID-19 Vaccine

We have heard many reasons why some of those who are eligible for vaccination against COVID-19 to prevent contracting and spreading the virus continue to remain unvaccinated. The lesser talked about reason is being needle phobic.

Yes, one reason behind not getting vaccinated may very well be that people are frightened of needles of any kind. Working in oncology, we have all had patients who are squeamish when getting a shot or having an IV inserted. This fear can increase when they are getting a needle that they consider to be “optional.”

Almost every news reference to the vaccine dilemma shows a close-up of a needle going into someone’s arm—not always in the correct location of the arm, either. A consumer might not notice this, but I sure do.

If you have patients who have declined to get vaccinated, despite full FDA approval of the Pfizer vaccine and likely a full FDA approval of the Moderna vaccine soon, we need to address their concerns. We should ask our patients their reasonings and inquire if they have any history of needle phobia, letting them know upfront that it is a common problem. They should not be embarrassed or made to feel ashamed of this. It could open the door for you to help arrange someone to be with the patient when the vaccine is administered. It would be ideal if there is a facility onsite at your institution that is providing vaccine shots to cancer patients/survivors.

Inquire politely and thoughtfully, and let’s see if one of the reasons for the delay is not related to politics and/or misinformation, but simply due to fear of needles.

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