Williard First v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré Syndrome (2016)

Williard First filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on January 22, 2016, alleging he suffered Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) after receiving an influenza vaccine on September 27, 2013. Mr.

First stated that he received the vaccination in the United States, that the effects of his injury lasted more than six months, and that he had not received prior compensation for his injury. Respondent denied that the influenza vaccine caused GBS or any other injury.

Despite the denial, the parties filed a joint stipulation on January 21, 2016, agreeing that compensation should be awarded. The Chief Special Master found the stipulation reasonable and adopted it as the decision of the Court.

Mr. First was awarded a lump sum of $200,000.00, representing compensation for all items of damages available under the Vaccine Act.

The decision directed the clerk of the court to enter judgment accordingly.