Shannon Jackson v. HHS - Influenza, ADEM, transverse myelitis, NMOSD, optic neuritis, or multiple sclerosis (2026)

On April 17, 2017, Shannon Jackson filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that the influenza vaccine she received on November 10, 2015, caused acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). Her claim was later expanded to include myelitis, transverse myelitis (TM), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), and optic neuritis (ON).

Petitioner was 35 years old at the time of vaccination and had a medical history including hypertension, obesity, and occasional smoking. Her symptoms evolved over several years, with initial complaints of neck pain, weakness, numbness, and vision loss.

The medical records detail a complex and evolving diagnostic picture, with treating physicians and experts considering various neuroinflammatory conditions. Petitioner's expert, Dr.

Lawrence Steinman, proposed a theory of molecular mimicry, suggesting that components of the flu vaccine triggered neuroinflammation by mimicking proteins in the myelin sheath. He identified potential homologies between vaccine components and myelin proteins like myelin basic protein (MBP) and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG).

Respondent's expert, Dr. Eric Lancaster, disagreed, finding insufficient evidence to establish causation and favoring a diagnosis of seronegative NMOSD.

Dr. Lancaster argued that Dr.

Steinman's molecular mimicry theory was too general and lacked specific evidence applicable to Petitioner's case, particularly regarding the homology analysis and the use of animal models. He also contended that Petitioner's symptoms, including neck pain, predated the vaccination, undermining the temporal relationship required for causation.

The Special Master, Herbrina D.S. Young, reviewed extensive medical records and expert testimony.

The Special Master found that Petitioner failed to establish a viable medical theory connecting the vaccine to her injuries, as Dr. Steinman's molecular mimicry theory was deemed too general and not sufficiently supported by specific evidence for this case.

Furthermore, the Special Master found that Petitioner did not prove actual causation, noting that her symptoms, particularly neck pain, appeared to predate the vaccination and were consistent with an unrelated cause. The temporal relationship was also deemed insufficient, as symptoms appeared around or shortly before the vaccination, undermining the claim that the vaccine was the cause.

Ultimately, the Special Master denied the petition, finding insufficient proof that the flu vaccine caused Shannon Jackson's neurological conditions. Petitioner was represented by William E.

Cochran, Jr., and Respondent was represented by Catherine Elizabeth Stolar. The decision was issued on January 6, 2026.