VR Diversion Software for Alleviation and Prevention of the Fear of Needles during Immunization Procedures

Abstract: Currently available VR-diversion solutions for vaccination lack key features for delivering an immersive and pleasurable experience. A tailor-made diversionary semi-interactive VR-experience software for vaccination procedures has been developed using mainly the game engine Unity and programmed in C#. The software aims to reduce or prevent anxiety, fear, and pain during these procedures. It is predominantly intended to be used by children as a tool for prevention. The narrative of the experience runs in parallel with the different steps and events of a vaccination procedure on the left arm. The interactions from the patient are only made using head gestures and no other controllers or movements of the body are used. The sequence can be initiated, restarted, and followed by a healthcare professional using a controller. The software is in a testable and applicable state but can be improved upon and polished in various areas.