Louie Worthy v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (2020)

Louie Worthy filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) and paralysis caused by an influenza vaccine he received on September 9, 2016. The petition stated that the vaccination occurred in the United States and that he continued to suffer residual effects for more than six months.

Respondent denied that the flu vaccine caused his GBS or current condition. Despite this denial, the parties filed a joint stipulation agreeing to settle the case and award compensation.

The court adopted the stipulation, awarding Louie Worthy a lump sum of $446,350.41 for first-year life expenses, pain and suffering, and unreimbursable expenses. Additionally, an amount sufficient to purchase an annuity contract for future life care expenses was awarded.

This settlement covers all damages available under the Vaccine Act. The decision was entered on July 14, 2020, following the stipulation filed on June 10, 2020.

The petition was originally filed on July 30, 2018.