Stephen Lesicko v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré Syndrome (2016)

Stephen Lesicko filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on August 17, 2016, alleging that he suffered from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) as a result of receiving an influenza vaccine on January 6, 2015. Mr.

Lesicko stated that the vaccine was administered in the United States and that he experienced residual effects of his injury for more than six months. He also affirmed that there had been no prior award or settlement of a civil action for damages related to his condition.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the flu vaccination caused petitioner's alleged injuries or his current condition. Despite the respondent's denial, on August 16, 2016, the parties filed a joint stipulation agreeing that compensation should be awarded.

Chief Special Master Nora Beth Dorsey reviewed the stipulation and found it reasonable, adopting it as the decision of the Court. Under the terms of the stipulation, Stephen Lesicko was awarded a lump sum of $140,000.00, payable by check to him, as compensation for all items of damages available under the Vaccine Act.

The decision was issued on October 31, 2016. Petitioner was represented by Maximillian J.

Muller of Muller Brazil, LLP, and respondent was represented by Alexis B. Babcock of the U.S.

Department of Justice.