As the COVID vaccination rollout continues across the United States, attention has turned to the various side effects reported by recipients. Recently, there have been instances where individuals experienced anxiety following their vaccination, particularly after receiving the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicated that there were 64 cases of anxiety-related reactions at vaccination sites in five states, prompting four of those locations to temporarily halt operations for investigation.
Many individuals have expressed their fears about needles, which may contribute to hesitancy surrounding vaccination. One Twitter user remarked, “My fear of needles is definitely making me procrastinate on getting my COVID vaccine.” Others shared similar sentiments, such as one person who tweeted about wearing a “lucky shirt” to ease their anxiety about receiving the shot.
The CDC noted that these anxiety-related symptoms were reported between April 7-9, 2021, prior to any announcements regarding a minor blood clot risk associated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Most of the reported anxiety cases were resolved within 15 minutes with supportive care. Common symptoms included lightheadedness and dizziness, affecting more than half of these individuals, and were often accompanied by sweating, faintness, nausea, and vomiting.
Interestingly, about 20% of those who reported anxiety-related symptoms had previously informed clinic staff about their fear of needles or a history of fainting with shots. As one individual tweeted, “I’m excited for my first COVID vaccine but also terrified of passing out from the shot.”
The CDC highlighted that the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine might be a preferable option for those particularly anxious about needles, as it requires only one shot. This could explain why some individuals opting for this vaccine may be more susceptible to anxiety-related events, the agency suggested.
When comparing anxiety-related incidents post-Johnson & Johnson vaccination to those following flu shots—also administered as a single dose—the CDC found that reports of fainting were approximately 164 times more prevalent with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.
Additionally, the ongoing stress of the pandemic and media coverage may be amplifying anxiety levels among the public. “Getting my COVID vaccine on Wednesday! I’m so ready to be vaccinated, but not ready to pass out from the shot,” another Twitter user shared, highlighting the struggles many face with needle fear.
The CDC recommends that vaccine providers remain vigilant about potential anxiety-related reactions following vaccination and observe all recipients for at least 15 minutes to monitor for adverse reactions.
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In summary, the CDC has identified a significant link between anxiety and immediate reactions following COVID vaccinations, particularly with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. Many individuals report anxiety, often stemming from a fear of needles, highlighting the need for awareness and care at vaccination sites.