COVID vaccine: More than just a shot for those afraid of needles COVID vaccine: More than just a shot for those afraid of needles Vaccine eligibility expands in Wisconsin soon. That also means a wider range of people who may have a fear of needles known as trypanophobia. MILWAUKEE - Vaccine eligibility expands on Monday, April 5 -- making it available to everyone 16 years and older. That also means a wider range of people who may have a fear of needles -- known as trypanophobia. According to a 2019 Journal of Advanced Nursing study, 20% to 30% of American adults ranging from 20 to 40 years old never got over their fear of needles.