Health leaders in Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland (LLR) are urging those members of the public that are either delaying having their Covid-19 vaccine or are nervous about doing so because of a fear of needles, to come forward as help is available.

Staff and clinicians at Covid-19 vaccination clinics across LLR say they are equipped to support people that are either nervous or afraid of needles by offering a range of solutions to ensure that people who suffer with a fear of needles can have their vaccinations safely and comfortably.

Dr Sulaxni Nainani, local GP, said: "Needle phobia is a very common fear affecting almost one in 10 people. We understand that when people have a fear of this nature it can be worrying to get vaccinated but please be reassured that we can help people to get vaccinated in a way that helps them to alleviate their worries."

To get help if you do suffer from needle phobia, you can either book in or walk-in to a vaccination clinic as normal. Let a member of staff know that you are nervous as soon as you arrive for your vaccination so they can arrange for you to receive it in the best way for you. This could include:

Getting you seen more quickly so you don't need to wait

Arranging for you to speak to a clinical member of staff to help put you at ease.

Vaccinating you in an area, away from other people, where you can lie down if it makes you more comfortable.

Having an additional member of staff to sit with you while you are being vaccinated to distract you from the injection or help to keep you calm.

Dr Nainani, continued: "Getting vaccinated against Covid-19 offers the best possible protection to help prevent people from becoming seriously unwell from the virus. We want to make sure that everyone is able to take the vaccine, so even if you have any concerns or special requirements in order to get vaccinated please contact either your GP or speak to a member of staff at a walk-in clinic. A member of the team will be on hand to help."

A leaflet with lots of useful information and hints and tips to help anyone manage their fear of needles can be found by clicking here.