Susan Peterson v. HHS - Influenza, Parsonage-Turner Syndrome (2018)

Susan Peterson filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that an influenza vaccine she received on October 27, 2015, caused her to suffer Parsonage-Turner Syndrome. The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit for damages.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, conceded that Peterson's alleged injury was consistent with shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) and that no other cause for her condition was identified. The respondent also agreed that Peterson met the statutory requirements for compensation, including suffering residual effects for more than six months.

Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence of record, the Chief Special Master ruled that Peterson was entitled to compensation. Subsequently, the parties submitted a proffer on the award of compensation, agreeing that Peterson should be awarded $82,092.48.

The decision awarded Peterson a lump sum payment of $82,092.48, representing compensation for all damages available under the Vaccine Act. Peterson is a competent adult, and no guardianship evidence was required.