Joaquim Pereira v. HHS - Influenza, Acute Hemorrhagic Leukoencephalitis (“AHL”) (2018)

Joaquim Pereira filed a petition for compensation on March 31, 2014, alleging that an influenza vaccination received on October 4, 2011, caused him to suffer from Acute Hemorrhagic Leukoencephalitis (AHL) and residual effects lasting more than six months. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the vaccine caused Petitioner's condition.

On February 8, 2018, the parties filed a stipulation for an award, which Special Master Herbrina Sanders found reasonable and adopted as the decision of the Court. Petitioner was awarded a lump sum of $584,459.78, representing compensation for first-year life care expenses ($60,501.81), lost earnings ($308,957.97), and pain and suffering ($215,000.00).

Additionally, an amount sufficient to purchase an annuity contract was awarded. The total award amounted to $800,459.78.

The public decision does not describe the onset of symptoms, specific clinical details, or expert testimony. Petitioner was represented by Ronald C.

Homer of Conway, Homer, P.C., and Respondent was represented by Althea Davis of the United States Department of Justice.