Russell Burden v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (2020)

Russell Burden filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that the influenza vaccine he received on October 7, 2013, caused him to develop Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and experience residual effects for more than six months. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the vaccine caused the GBS or any other injury.

However, the parties reached a stipulation for an award. The court approved the stipulation, awarding Mr.

Burden a total of $620,581.78. This amount included $20,581.78 for first-year life care expenses and $600,000.00 for combined lost earnings, pain and suffering, and past unreimbursable expenses.

Additionally, $9,509.98 was awarded to reimburse a Pennsylvania Department of Human Services lien. The award was intended to cover all damages available under the program.

The decision was entered based on the parties' joint stipulation, with judgment to be entered accordingly.