Michael Crist v. HHS - Influenza, Bell’s palsy and hearing loss (2016)

Michael Crist filed a petition on December 5, 2015, alleging that he suffered from Bell's palsy and hearing loss caused by an influenza vaccine he received on September 29, 2013. He further alleged that the residual effects of this injury lasted for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the flu vaccine caused the petitioner's alleged injuries or any other disability. The parties reached a stipulation to resolve the case.

Special Master Laura D. Millman reviewed the stipulation and found its terms to be reasonable.

The court adopted the stipulation and awarded Michael Crist $60,000.00 as compensation for all damages. The award was to be paid as a lump sum check made payable to the petitioner.

The decision was issued on December 5, 2016. Andrew W.

Downing represented the petitioner, and Glenn A. MacLeod represented the respondent.

The public decision does not describe the onset of symptoms, specific medical tests, treatments, or the mechanism of causation.