Sharon Hughes v. HHS - Influenza, right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2022)

Sharon Hughes filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered a right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) from an influenza vaccination received on October 30, 2017. Initially, the respondent contested entitlement, arguing that Hughes failed to provide evidence of symptom onset within 48 hours of the vaccination.

A fact hearing was held, and the Special Master found by a preponderance of the evidence that the onset of Hughes' shoulder injury occurred within 48 hours of her vaccination. Subsequently, the respondent conceded entitlement, electing not to defend the case further.

The matter then proceeded to the damages phase. After considering the evidence, including medical records, testimony, and prior case law, the Special Master awarded Hughes $100,956.12.

This amount included $100,000.00 for actual pain and suffering and $956.12 for past unreimbursable expenses. The decision noted that Hughes, a cardiovascular technician, experienced pain that impacted her work duties, and that her injury, though delayed in seeking treatment, ultimately required surgery and lasted approximately 12 months.