Doreen Clouser v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) (2021)

Doreen Clouser filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on December 20, 2017, alleging that she suffered Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on November 2, 2016. She stated that she received the vaccine in the United States, experienced residual effects for more than six months, and had no prior award or settlement for her condition.

Respondent denied that the vaccine caused GBS, Chronic Inflammatory Polyneuropathy (CIDP), or any other injury. Despite the denial, the parties filed a joint stipulation on February 17, 2021, agreeing that compensation should be awarded.

The Chief Special Master adopted the stipulation as the decision, awarding Doreen Clouser a lump sum of $196,301.01 for first-year life care expenses, pain and suffering, and past unreimbursable expenses. An additional amount was awarded to purchase an annuity contract.

This award represents compensation for all damages available under Section 15(a) of the Vaccine Act.