For those with a fear of needles, vaccination can be daunting. A pioneering researcher has developed the Bubble Gun—a handheld laser device that delivers vaccines painlessly without needles.
During the COVID-19 vaccination drive, needle phobia—known as belonephobia—prevented many from getting vaccinated. As noted in a July 2021 La Dépêche article, psychotherapist Rodolphe Oppenheimer explains it's more than fear of needles; it includes sharp objects and can cause hypoventilation, breath-holding, or even fainting.
David Fernandez Rivas, from the University of Twente in the Netherlands and an affiliate researcher at MIT, has addressed this with the Bubble Gun. Detailed on his personal blog, this needle-free injector uses laser technology to propel vaccines through the skin's outer layer without penetration.
Beyond tackling belonephobia, the Bubble Gun eliminates bloodborne disease risks from contaminated needles and reduces medical waste, offering an eco-friendly alternative. EU funding supported initial tissue tests, but clinical trials need further crowdfunding. Volunteers will soon be sought.
Market availability is projected in 1-3 years, pending rigorous testing and regulatory approval from health authorities.
While belonephobia affects about 30% of Dutch adults (see video at article end), it's increasingly relevant amid urgent vaccination needs, especially for those with comorbidities.
