Terezza Jones v. HHS - HPV, Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (“SLE”) (2018)

On December 14, 2012, Kerri and Darrell Jones filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on behalf of their minor child, Terezza Jones. Terezza Jones was later substituted as the petitioner.

The petition alleged that the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations received on September 29, 2009, December 22, 2009, and May 24, 2010, caused or significantly aggravated her Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) and subsequent sequelae. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the immunizations caused or aggravated her condition.

Despite the respondent's denial, the parties reached a joint stipulation to settle the case. The settlement terms included a lump sum payment of $5,000.00 payable to Terezza Jones and an additional $77,000.00 to purchase an annuity contract.

This total compensation of $82,000.00 was intended to cover all damages. Special Master Mindy Michaels Roth adopted the parties' stipulation and directed that judgment be entered accordingly.

Petitioner was represented by Mark Sadaka, Esq., of Mark T. Sadaka, LLC, and respondent was represented by Debra Begley, Esq., of the US Department of Justice.

The decision was issued on November 13, 2018.