Lori Knudson v. HHS - Influenza, left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2019)

Lori Knudson filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on July 13, 2018. She alleged that she suffered a left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) as a result of receiving an influenza vaccine on October 22, 2015.

The petition stated that the vaccination was administered in the United States, that the residual effects of the injury lasted for more than six months, and that there had been no prior award or settlement of a civil action for damages on her behalf. The respondent denied that the influenza vaccine caused petitioner's left shoulder SIRVA and denied that petitioner sustained a SIRVA table injury.

Despite these denials, the parties filed a joint stipulation on September 19, 2019, agreeing to settle the issues. Chief Special Master Nora Beth Dorsey reviewed the stipulation and found it reasonable, adopting it as the decision of the Court.

Pursuant to the stipulation, Lori Knudson was awarded a lump sum of $56,224.69, payable by check to petitioner, as compensation for all damages available under the program. This amount represents a compromise of the parties' respective positions on liability and/or damages.

The decision was issued on November 21, 2019. Petitioner was represented by Leah VaSahnja Durant of the Law Offices of Leah V.

Durant, PLLC. Respondent was represented by Mollie Danielle Gorney of the U.S.

Department of Justice.