Suzanne Hulett v. HHS - Influenza, optic neuropathy and/or optic neuritis (2018)

Suzanne Hulett received an influenza vaccine on October 22, 2015. She alleged that this vaccination caused her to develop optic neuropathy and/or optic neuritis, and that she experienced residual effects for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the flu vaccine caused her alleged condition. The parties, however, reached a stipulation to settle the case.

The court adopted the stipulation and awarded Suzanne Hulett a lump sum of $175,000.00, representing compensation for all damages available under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. This award was made despite the respondent's denial of causation, reflecting a negotiated settlement of liability and damages.

The case proceeded as a Table claim, as the influenza vaccine is listed on the Vaccine Injury Table. The decision was issued on May 14, 2018, following the filing of the petition on May 14, 2018.