Sean Oberheim v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2019)

Sean Oberheim filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) caused by the influenza vaccine he received on November 2, 2015. He stated that he received the vaccination in the United States and suffered residual effects of the GBS for more than six months.

The respondent conceded that Mr. Oberheim was entitled to compensation, as he met the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table for GBS, which presumes causation if onset occurs between three and forty-two days after a seasonal flu vaccination and there is no apparent alternative cause.

A Ruling on Entitlement was issued on May 25, 2018, finding him entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on July 25, 2019, the parties filed a joint stipulation agreeing that Mr.

Oberheim should be awarded $155,000.00. The Chief Special Master issued a Decision Awarding Damages on October 17, 2019, awarding Mr.

Oberheim a lump sum of $155,000.00, representing compensation for all damages available under the Vaccine Act. This amount covers all damages, and Mr.

Oberheim released the United States and the Secretary of Health and Human Services from further claims related to this vaccination.