VaccineHero 2.0: Making vaccination visits fun!

[conference]

Full reference

Wallace M., Poulopoulos V., Antonopoulos S. and Rentoula V., VaccineHero 2.0: Making vaccination visits fun!, 20th International Workshop on Semantic and Social Media Adaptation & Personalization (SMAP), November 27-28 2025, Mystras, Greece

Abstract

VaccineHero is a system designed to reduce children's discomfort during vaccination by combining an XR-based digital environment with a clinically validated protocol. The system presents children with a narrative in which they assume the role of a hero, helping them focus away from the procedure while supporting medical staff in maintaining procedural flow. Its efficacy has been objectively assessed using the VACS tool, which measures children's discomfort during vaccination. Results from real-world deployment confirm a measurable reduction in distress. VaccineHero has received international recognition and is currently being developed into a product for broader use.

Download

Click here to access the paper.