S.G.R. v. HHS - DTaP, localization-related epilepsy (2021)

Brianna and Jeffrey Rich, as parents and natural guardians of S.G.R., a minor child, filed a petition on March 7, 2018, alleging that a diphtheria-tetanus-acellular-pertussis (DTaP) vaccine and a measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine administered on April 17, 2015, caused S.G.R. to develop localization-related epilepsy. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the vaccines caused S.G.R.'s condition or any other injury.

On February 2, 2021, the parties filed a stipulation recommending an award of compensation. Special Master Nora Beth Dorsey found the stipulation reasonable and adopted it as the decision of the Court.

The stipulation provided for a lump sum payment of $295.84 to reimburse a lien for services rendered by Presbyterian Centennial Care. An additional amount was to be purchased as an annuity contract.

This compensation covers all damages available under the National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act. The decision was based on the stipulation, and judgment was entered accordingly.

Petitioner counsel was Diana Lynn Stadelnikas of Maglio Christopher and Toale, PA. Respondent counsel was Lara Ann Englund of the United States Department of Justice.

The public decision does not describe the onset of symptoms, specific clinical details, medical tests, treatments, or expert testimony.