Vaccinophobia: The Fear of Vaccines

Vaccinophobia is the irrational and persistent fear of vaccines.  This one has been in the news quite a bit over the last few years.  First parents didn’t want their children to get vaccinated, because of the possibility of autism among other things.  Then there was this whole H1N1 (swine flu) thing. 

Whether or not vaccines are dangerous, those with this phobia may have the tendency to take their fears a little overboard.  That’s just the deal with a phobia.  They have a reason to be afraid, but it soon becomes very irrational.  For example:  I have a fear of fire.  My reasoning for it is very legitimate, but sleeping with a fire extinguisher is a little too much.

A phobia is a strong, persistent fear of situations, objects, activities or persons.  The main symptom is an excessive and unreasonable desire to avoid the feared subject. Other phobia symptoms include shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, sweating, nausea, and an overall feeling of dread.  Phobias are the most common form of anxiety disorders.

Do you suffer from Vaccinophobia?  Please share your story.  How was it triggered and how does it affect your life?