Michael Howells v. HHS - Influenza, transverse myelitis (2023)

Michael Howells filed a petition on January 30, 2017, alleging that he developed transverse myelitis as a result of the influenza and PCV vaccines he received on December 14, 2015. The petitioner's onset of symptoms occurred 26 days after vaccination, which is considered within the expected period for post-vaccination transverse myelitis.

Medical experts, including Dr. Zubkov and Dr.

Pachner, provided opinions supporting the claim that the petitioner's spinal cord injury was a direct consequence of the vaccinations. Respondent did not contest the good faith or reasonable basis of the claim.

The court found that the petition was filed in good faith and with a reasonable basis, supported by expert reports and medical records. The case is proceeding as an off-Table claim.

The decision awarded interim attorneys' fees and costs totaling $140,947.85, recognizing the protracted nature of the proceedings and the costs associated with retaining experts. The final entitlement decision is pending, with a hearing scheduled for February 2024.