Purna Kami v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (2018)

Purna Kami filed a petition alleging Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) caused by an influenza vaccination received on October 15, 2014. The case was initially assigned for expedited resolution.

However, the petitioner failed to provide necessary medical records and subsequently lost contact with his counsel. Counsel filed a motion to withdraw, citing the petitioner's lack of communication.

The court issued an Order to Show Cause why the case should not be dismissed for failure to prosecute, giving the petitioner 90 days to respond. The petitioner's counsel attempted to serve the order via certified mail and Federal Express, but could not confirm delivery with a signature and had no further contact with the petitioner.

As the petitioner failed to respond by the deadline, and had not maintained contact with his attorney, the Chief Special Master dismissed the case without prejudice for failure to prosecute. The petitioner is an adult.