Amanda Tripp v. HHS - Influenza, cerebellitis (2025)

Amanda Tripp received an influenza vaccination on March 21, 2016. She subsequently developed symptoms including ataxia, speech difficulties, abnormal mental status, and severe weakness, which were diagnosed as post-vaccination cerebellitis.

The case proceeded as an off-Table claim, meaning Ms. Tripp had to prove causation-in-fact.

She presented expert testimony and medical records to support her claim that the flu vaccine caused her cerebellitis. Respondent argued that Ms.

Tripp failed to establish a sound and reliable theory of causation, a logical sequence of cause and effect, and a proximate temporal relationship between the vaccination and her injury. After a hearing, the Special Master denied her claim, finding that she had not met her burden of proof on any of the three Althen prongs.

The court reviewed the Special Master's decision and affirmed the denial, finding that the Special Master's conclusions were not arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion, or otherwise not in accordance with the law. The court found that Ms.

Tripp failed to demonstrate preponderant evidence for a sound and reliable theory of causation, a logical sequence of cause and effect, or a proximate temporal relationship linking the vaccine to her condition. The court also noted that the diagnosis of cerebellitis was a 'working diagnosis' and that other potential causes, such as a viral infection, were considered.

Ultimately, Ms. Tripp was not compensated.