Resources

Pain Management

• Buzzy(R): A device that uses vibration and coldness to dull the sensation of needle procedures.
• How to use Emla (topical numbing cream)
• J-Tip: Needle-free anesthetic injector that helps numb skin before needle procedures
• Reduce the pain of vaccination in children – 20-minute video from Canada regarding methods of relieving pain from needle procedures. Content warning: This video contains numerous clips of needle procedures, which some people with needle phobia may find disturbing.

Alternatives to Needles

• Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine
  • Fact sheet from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  • Manufacturer website (with clinic finder)
• PharmaJet — needle-free injector system approved for flu shots

Coping With Needle Procedures

• Information on Needle Phobia from the National Health Service (UK)
  • See pg. 2 for the Applied Tension technique to prevent fainting
• Comfort Game Plan – a simple worksheet from The Free Needle Phobia Pilot to help you make a comfort plan for your vaccine

Therapy

• The Free Needle Phobia Pilot – a group of volunteer therapists that provide brief therapy to help with COVID-19 vaccination