Sandra R. Hughes v. HHS - Pneumococcal, cellulitis, hematoma, and an abscess (2017)

Sandra R. Hughes filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered cellulitis, a hematoma, and an abscess as a result of a pneumococcal conjugate vaccination (Prevnar 13) she received on November 21, 2014.

She stated that she received the vaccination in the United States, suffered residual effects for more than six months, and had not filed a civil action or received other compensation for her injury. The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Ms. Hughes was entitled to compensation.

The respondent agreed that her cellulitis, hematoma, and abscess at the vaccination site were more likely than not caused by the vaccination, and that she met all legal prerequisites for compensation. Based on this concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master issued a ruling on entitlement, finding Ms.

Hughes entitled to compensation. Subsequently, a decision awarding damages was issued.

The respondent had included a Proffer on Award of Compensation in her Rule 4(c) report, proposing an award of $125,017.82, which Ms. Hughes agreed to.

The court awarded Ms. Hughes a lump sum payment of $125,017.82, representing compensation for all available damages.