Jessica Kellner v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (2014)

Jessica Kellner filed a petition on August 14, 2012, alleging that an influenza vaccination she received on November 18, 2009 caused her to develop Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), with residual effects lasting more than six months. Respondent denied that the flu vaccine caused petitioner's GBS or any other injury.

Nonetheless, both parties agreed in a joint stipulation filed April 16, 2014 to settle the case. Special Master Gowen found the stipulation reasonable and adopted it as the decision of the Court.

Petitioner received a lump sum of $40,000.00, representing compensation for all damages available under 42 U.S.C. § 300aa-15(a). On November 3, 2014, the parties filed a stipulation of attorneys' fees and costs.

Special Master Gowen awarded $12,495.28, payable jointly to petitioner and her counsel, Michael A. London of Douglas & London, P.C.

Petitioner had not personally incurred any out-of-pocket litigation costs.