Faith Hoelzel v. HHS - Influenza, syncopal episode, concussion, dental fractures, and permanent facial scarring (2019)

Faith Hoelzel filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered a syncopal episode, concussion, dental fractures, and permanent facial scarring after receiving an influenza vaccine on December 23, 2014. The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit.

The respondent filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that petitioner was entitled to compensation, as her vasovagal syncope was a Table injury with onset within one hour of the flu vaccination and had no apparent alternative cause. The respondent also agreed that petitioner experienced more than six months of residual effects.

A ruling on entitlement was issued on October 30, 2018, finding petitioner entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on December 17, 2018, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, recommending an award of $101,671.56, which included $100,000.00 for pain and suffering and $1,671.56 for past unreimbursable expenses.

Petitioner, an adult, agreed with the proffered award. The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding Faith Hoelzel a lump sum payment of $101,671.56 on February 6, 2019.