MADISON, Wis. — Doctors say vaccines are one of the most important parts of the effort to end the COVID-19 pandemic, but they recognize some people’s fear of needles may be getting in the way.
UW Health says about 2 or 3 out of every 10 people between the ages of 20 and 40 have a fear of needles, leading to anxiety and worry about vaccines that can lead to fainting or nausea.
Clinical health psychologist Victoria Egizio says if you have those feelings about the COVID vaccine, you aren’t alone.
“This is a fight or flight response; it’s normal,” Egizio says. “We want to try to tackle those thoughts, calm the brain and body down and help people focus on their motivation to get the vaccine.”
There are some steps people who are afraid of needles but want to get the vaccine can take to try to relax before their appointment, Egizio says. That includes using “belly breathing” before, during and after the vaccination; distracting yourself with things like essential oils or talking with the person giving the shot; and focusing on the positives, like how the vaccination will help family and friends stay safe.
Starting Monday, April 5, everyone in Wisconsin aged 16 and up will be eligible to receive the vaccine.
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