Kathi Aho v. HHS - Influenza, pain, numbness, tingling, a nerve injury, and a small fiber neuropathy ("SFN") (2017)

Kathi Aho filed a petition for vaccine compensation on November 13, 2014, alleging that the influenza vaccine she received on September 30, 2013, caused her to develop small fiber neuropathy (SFN), characterized by severe pain, numbness, and tingling in her arms and legs, particularly on the left side of her body. She further alleged that she experienced residual effects of this injury for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the influenza vaccine caused petitioner's condition. The parties reached a joint stipulation to settle the case.

Special Master Christian J. Moran adopted the stipulation as the decision of the Court.

Under the terms of the stipulation, Kathi Aho was awarded a lump sum payment of $50,000.00, payable by check to petitioner, as compensation for all damages available under 42 U.S.C. § 300aa-15(a). The decision was entered on January 4, 2017.

The public decision does not describe the specific onset of symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, or the mechanism of injury. Petitioner was represented by Andrew D.

Downing of Van Cott & Talamante, PLLC. Respondent was represented by Debra A.

Filteau Begley of the U.S. Department of Justice.