Kelly Johnson v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) (2015)

Kelly Johnson filed a petition on February 27, 2014, alleging that she suffered from Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine received on January 17, 2013. She further alleged that she experienced residual effects of these injuries for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the flu vaccine caused or significantly aggravated the petitioner's alleged injuries or any other injury, and denied that her current disabilities were the result of a vaccine-related injury. Despite these denials, the parties filed a joint stipulation agreeing to a settlement.

Special Master Nora Beth Dorsey reviewed the stipulation and found it reasonable, adopting it as the decision of the Court. Under the terms of the stipulation, Kelly Johnson was awarded a lump sum of $32,500.00 for all damages.

Additionally, the parties stipulated to attorneys' fees and costs in the amount of $17,000.00, which Special Master Dorsey also approved. The judgment was entered in accordance with the terms of the parties' stipulation.

Petitioner was represented by Danielle Anne Strait of Maglio Christopher & Toale, PC, and respondent was represented by Darryl R. Wishard of the United States Department of Justice.

The decision was issued on February 19, 2015.