Martha Jane Ritchie v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2023)

Martha Jane Ritchie filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine she received on November 14, 2017. The respondent conceded that her GBS was consistent with the Vaccine Injury Table for GBS following a seasonal flu vaccination, and that she met the criteria for a presumption of causation.

The respondent also agreed that her injury sequelae lasted for more than six months. Consequently, a ruling on entitlement was issued on December 10, 2019, finding her entitled to compensation.

Subsequently, on July 28, 2023, the parties filed a proffer on award of compensation. The respondent recommended an award of $634,445.85, which included $18,803.85 for life care expenses in the first year, $397,642.00 for past and future lost earnings, and $218,000.00 for pain and suffering.

The proffer also included an amount sufficient to purchase an annuity contract for future life care items. Martha Jane Ritchie agreed with the proffered award.

A decision awarding damages was issued on August 31, 2023, granting the lump sum payment and the annuity as recommended.