How can I deal with my needle phobia to get COVID vaccine?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have a phobia of needles and I am not vaccinated against COVID-19. I am considering getting vaccinated but I would like to first consult for resources to help me cope with this process and make it less anxiety-inducing for me.

I was also unsure if I need to have my second vaccine within the recommended time of three to six weeks, or if I could wait for some more months if I want to, without compromising the overall effectiveness of both doses.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your concern in detail and I will surely help you out.

I can understand your phobia and it can lead to severe anxiety.

The best way to tackle it is to take anti-anxiety drugs like the tablet Nexito plus (Clonazepam and Escitalopram) one hour prior to injection. This will help you to fight the phobia. Once you get the vaccine, you will be fine.

The other way can be to ask your family members to give you the vaccine while you are asleep but this may not be possible as arranging the vaccine at home will be difficult.

Hope this helps.

Kindly revert back in case of further queries.

Thank you.