K.W. v. HHS - DTaP, immune thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP) (2022)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On March 16, 2022, Ashley and Kevin Walls, parents of K.W., a minor, filed a petition seeking compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. They alleged that K.W. developed immune thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP) as a result of the DTaP, Hib, Hepatitis B, and PCV vaccines he received on July 16, 2014.
On June 23, 2020, Special Master Katherine E. Oler issued a Ruling on Entitlement, finding that the vaccinations caused K.W.'s ITP and that he suffered residual effects for more than six months.
The parties subsequently entered into a joint stipulation for damages. Special Master Oler reviewed the file and found the stipulation to be reasonable, adopting it as her decision.
The stipulation awarded K.W. a lump sum of $3,719.10 for past unreimbursable expenses, payable to Petitioners. Additionally, an amount sufficient to purchase an annuity contract was awarded.
This annuity contract includes a lump sum payment of $40,772.11 to be made on March 29, 2031. The total award amounts to $44,491.31.
The parties agreed that the money provided, except for attorneys' fees, litigation costs, and past unreimbursed expenses, would be used solely for K.W.'s benefit. Petitioners represented that they would become duly authorized guardians of K.W.'s estate.
The case was decided by joint stipulation on March 16, 2022, with Special Master Katherine E. Oler issuing the decision.
Ronald C. Homer represented the Petitioner, and Colleen C.
Hartley represented the Respondent.