Sandra Williams v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2019)

Sandra Williams filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on November 16, 2015. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) Report conceding entitlement to compensation.

The respondent concluded that Ms. Williams suffered the Table injury of GBS following the flu vaccine within the Table time period and that there was no evidence that her GBS was due to an unrelated factor.

The respondent also agreed that she experienced sequelae of her GBS for more than six months. A ruling on entitlement was issued on June 19, 2019, finding Ms.

Williams entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on September 6, 2019, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, proposing an award of $196,801.50.

This amount included $185,000.00 for pain and suffering and $11,801.50 for past unreimbursed expenses. Ms.

Williams, who is a competent adult, agreed with the proffered award. The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding damages on October 24, 2019, in the amount of $196,801.50.