Christina Brethauer v. HHS - Influenza, spinal cord myelitis (2016)

Christina Brethauer filed a petition alleging that she developed spinal cord myelitis caused by her October 9, 2013 receipt of an influenza vaccine. She further alleged that she suffered residual effects from her injuries for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the vaccine caused her condition. Despite the denial, the parties agreed to resolve the case through a stipulation.

The Special Master reviewed the stipulation and found its terms to be reasonable. Pursuant to the stipulation, the court awarded Christina Brethauer compensation in the amount of $70,000.00, representing reimbursement for all damages available under the program.

The award was to be paid as a lump sum check made payable to Ms. Brethauer.

The decision was issued on May 18, 2016. Petitioner's counsel was Diana L.

Stadelnikas Sedar, and respondent's counsel was Lisa A. Watts.

Special Master Laura D. Millman issued the decision.