Richard Watkins v. HHS - Influenza, left shoulder injury (2016)

Richard Watkins filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program alleging a left shoulder injury resulting from his influenza vaccination on October 14, 2014. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, conceded that Mr.

Watkins' injury was consistent with Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) and that it was caused by the flu vaccination. The respondent also confirmed that no other causes for the injury were identified and that the statutory sequela requirement was met.

Based on this concession and the evidence, the court issued a ruling on entitlement, finding Mr. Watkins entitled to compensation.

Subsequently, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, proposing an award of $60,000.00, which Mr. Watkins agreed to.

The court accepted this proffer and awarded Mr. Watkins a lump sum payment of $60,000.00 as compensation for all damages available under the Act.