Donna Anderson v. HHS - Influenza, acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) and autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy (AAG), significant aggravation of her carpal tunnel syndrome and cervical spondylosis (2019)

Donna Anderson filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on September 22, 2014, alleging that she suffered injuries as a result of an influenza vaccination received on October 11, 2012. Ms.

Anderson claimed that the vaccination caused central and peripheral nervous system issues, specifically acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) and autoimmune autonomic ganglionopathy (AAG). She also alleged that the vaccination significantly aggravated her pre-existing carpal tunnel syndrome and cervical spondylosis, and that these residual effects lasted for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the flu vaccination caused Ms. Anderson's alleged injuries or current condition.

Despite maintaining their respective positions on causation, the parties entered into a stipulation to settle the case. The stipulation provided for a decision awarding compensation to Ms.

Anderson. The award included a lump sum of $140,000.00 and an amount sufficient to purchase an annuity contract, intended to cover all damages available under the program.

The Special Master adopted the stipulation and awarded compensation accordingly, with judgment to be entered based on the terms of the agreement.