Margo Bryk v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (2014)

Margo Bryk filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on May 7, 2012. Petitioner alleged that she received an influenza vaccination on September 10, 2009, and subsequently developed Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) with residual effects lasting more than six months.

The respondent denied that the flu vaccine caused petitioner's GBS or any other injury. However, both parties reached a joint stipulation to settle the case, which was filed on March 6, 2014.

Chief Special Master Denise Kathryn Vowell reviewed the stipulation and found it reasonable, adopting it as the decision of the Court. As part of the settlement, petitioner Margo Bryk was awarded a lump sum of $140,000.00, payable by check, representing compensation for all damages available under 42 U.S.C. § 300aa-15(a).

The public decision does not describe the specific onset of symptoms, clinical details of the GBS, diagnostic tests performed, treatments received, or the specific mechanism of causation. Petitioner was represented by Isaiah Kalinowski, Esq., of Maglio, Christopher & Toale.

Respondent was represented by Julia W. McInerny, Esq., of the U.S.

Department of Justice.