Matthew Thornton v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2015)

Matthew Thornton filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on October 9, 2014, alleging that an influenza vaccination on October 22, 2011, caused him to suffer from Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). He further alleged residual effects for more than six months and no prior award or settlement.

Respondent denied that the flu immunization caused his GBS or any other injury. The parties reached a settlement, and on July 23, 2015, the Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding compensation based on a joint stipulation.

Respondent agreed to pay petitioner a lump sum of $50,000.00 for all damages. Additionally, on July 14, 2015, the parties filed a stipulation for attorneys' fees and costs, agreeing to an award of $9,598.28.

The court found this amount reasonable and awarded it as a lump sum, jointly payable to the petitioner and his counsel.