Ronny Echeverri v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2021)

Ronny Echeverri filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccination he received on December 30, 2015. The petition stated that his injuries lasted for more than six months and that no civil action or prior compensation had been sought.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Mr. Echeverri was entitled to compensation.

The respondent agreed that Mr. Echeverri suffered GBS following the flu vaccine within the Table time period and that the preponderance of the medical evidence did not show an unrelated cause.

The respondent also confirmed that the claim met the statutory severity requirements. Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, a ruling on entitlement was issued on January 17, 2020, finding Mr.

Echeverri entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on August 10, 2021, the parties submitted a proffer on award of compensation.

The proffer recommended a total award of $262,714.43, comprising $230,000.00 for pain and suffering and $13,207.44 for past unreimbursable expenses, plus $19,506.99 to satisfy a State of California Medicaid lien. Mr.

Echeverri agreed with this proffered award. A decision awarding damages was issued on September 14, 2021, granting the total compensation amount.