Renee Smith v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2020)

Renee Smith filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) from an influenza vaccine given on October 12, 2017. The respondent conceded that her medical course was consistent with SIRVA, a condition listed on the Vaccine Injury Table.

The respondent specifically noted that Ms. Smith had no prior shoulder issues, her pain occurred within 48 hours of the vaccination, was limited to the injection site, and no other condition explained her symptoms.

Furthermore, she suffered residual effects for more than six months. Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, the court found Ms.

Smith entitled to compensation. Subsequently, the parties submitted a proffer agreeing to an award of $125,000.00 for past and future pain and suffering.

The court awarded this lump sum payment to Ms. Smith, who is a competent adult.