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Articles on needle pain

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Discussing and practising all the steps of a medical procedure with children can help them overcome fear. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

If your child is afraid of — or refusing — a medical procedure, here’s how to help

Children who avoid or refuse medical procedures like COVID-19 tests or vaccinations aren’t misbehaving — they need help to manage their fears. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help your child cope.
Unmanaged needle fear is very distressing for those affected and can influence health-care choices. Science-backed methods can help people manage their phobia and get vaccinated. (Shutterstock)

Needle fears can cause COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, but these strategies can manage pain and fear

For the one in 10 people with a significant fear of needles, getting a vaccination is distressing. This can disrupt vaccination campaigns, but there are effective ways to manage pain and fear.

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