Kelsi Amen v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2018)

Kelsi Amen filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccination received on October 16, 2014. She also received a Tdap vaccination on November 18, 2013, but the GBS was attributed to the flu shot.

Amen claimed residual effects from the injury for more than six months and stated there had been no prior award or settlement for her condition. Respondent denied that either the influenza or Tdap vaccine caused her GBS or any other injury.

Despite the denial, the parties filed a joint stipulation on August 30, 2017, agreeing that compensation should be awarded. The Chief Special Master found the stipulation reasonable and adopted it as the court's decision.

Kelsi Amen was awarded a lump sum of $170,000.00, representing compensation for all items of damages available under the Vaccine Act.