My husband looked at me and said "that's the last time I take that kid for a shot". But it was NOT government mandated...The government only mandated Polio, and the pertussin and 2 others (another senior moment) Couldn't have been mumps, measles or chicken pox as they all had those..
I believe it is a true phobia.
I had to get one of my anthrax series shots last year in the Green Zone (Baghdad.) My wait at the CASH seemed longer than usual. Finally, a somewhat pale, but big, young strapping Marine left the little office and I was ushered in for my shot.
The medic apologized for the wait by explaining that the Marine had passed out cold after the needle went in. He said that it's not unusual...there are perfectly healthy, stable, brave adults who are petrified of needles.