Kendra Matthews v. HHS - Influenza, Miller Fisher variant of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) (2019)

Kendra Matthews filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered the Miller Fisher variant of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccination received on November 23, 2016. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, conceded that Ms.

Matthews was entitled to compensation. The respondent determined that her GBS was consistent with the Vaccine Injury Table for GBS following the seasonal flu vaccination.

A ruling on entitlement was issued on March 21, 2019, finding her entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on May 22, 2019, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, recommending an award of $151,362.43.

This amount was comprised of $140,000.00 for pain and suffering and $11,362.43 for unreimbursed medical expenses. Ms.

Matthews, an adult, agreed with this proffered award. The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding Ms.

Matthews a lump sum payment of $151,362.43 on August 14, 2019.