Katie Rice v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2016)

Katie Rice filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered a shoulder injury following receipt of her October 8, 2014 influenza vaccination. The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit.

Respondent filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that petitioner was entitled to compensation, believing the alleged injury was consistent with a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) and was caused in fact by the influenza vaccine. Respondent also agreed that no other cause was identified, that the condition persisted for more than six months, and that petitioner met all legal prerequisites for compensation.

A ruling on entitlement was issued on January 8, 2016, finding petitioner entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on February 17, 2016, respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, indicating petitioner should be awarded $70,000.00, an amount with which petitioner agreed.

The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding petitioner a lump sum payment of $70,000.00, representing compensation for all damages available under the Vaccine Act.