Survey of the prevalence of immunization non-compliance due to needle fears in children and adults

► 1907 children and parents were surveyed to determine prevalence of self-reported needle fear and impact on vaccine adherence. ► Needle fear was present in 2/3 of children and 1/4 of adults. ► Vaccine non-adherence due to needle fear occurred in 1/12 children and adults alike. ► Pre-emptive analgesia is recommended to prevent the harms of unmitigated pain.