Laurie Dart v. HHS - Influenza, transverse myelitis (2015)

Laurie Dart filed a petition on November 17, 2015, under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program alleging that she developed transverse myelitis as a result of receiving an influenza vaccine on October 17, 2013. She further alleged that she experienced residual effects of her injury for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the flu vaccination caused petitioner's transverse myelitis or any other injury. Nevertheless, the parties filed a joint stipulation for damages and attorneys' fees and costs.

Special Master Thomas L. Gowen adopted the stipulation as the decision of the Court.

Laurie Dart was awarded a lump sum of $90,000.00 for all damages. Additionally, a lump sum of $11,500.00 was awarded for attorneys' fees and costs, payable jointly to petitioner and her attorney, Diana Stadelnikas Sedar of Maglio, Christopher & Toale, PA.

The parties stipulated to an expedited judgment, waiving the right to seek review. The public decision does not describe the specific onset of symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, or the medical expert testimony presented.