Katie Wiggins v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2018)

Katie Wiggins filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on June 26, 2017, alleging that she suffered Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) caused by an influenza vaccine she received on September 18, 2016. She further alleged that she suffered residual effects for more than six months and that neither she nor any other party had received an award or settlement for her GBS.

The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit. On March 27, 2018, the respondent filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that petitioner was entitled to compensation.

The respondent concluded that petitioner suffered GBS following a flu vaccine within the Table time period and that there was no preponderance of medical evidence indicating the GBS was due to an unrelated cause. The respondent also agreed that petitioner had satisfied all legal prerequisites for compensation.

Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence of record, Chief Special Master Nora Beth Dorsey issued a Ruling on Entitlement on March 29, 2018, finding petitioner entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on May 10, 2018, the respondent filed a Proffer on Award of Compensation, recommending an award of $200,000.00 for pain and suffering, which petitioner accepted.

Chief Special Master Dorsey issued a Decision Awarding Damages on May 10, 2018, awarding petitioner a lump sum payment of $200,000.00 for pain and suffering, payable to Katie Wiggins. Petitioner was represented by Leah VaSahnja Durant of the Law Offices of Leah V.

Durant, PLLC, and respondent was represented by Christine Mary Becer of the U.S. Department of Justice.

The public decision does not describe the onset, specific symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatments, or the mechanism of causation.