Richard Booth v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2021)

Richard Booth filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) as a result of his influenza vaccination on September 18, 2017. The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit.

Respondent filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Petitioner was entitled to compensation, as his condition met the criteria for a Table injury with onset between three and forty-two days after vaccination, and there was no apparent alternative cause. The medical records also demonstrated residual effects of GBS for more than six months.

A ruling on entitlement was issued on April 2, 2020, finding Petitioner entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on July 13, 2021, the parties filed a joint stipulation for damages.

The court adopted the stipulation, awarding compensation including a lump sum of $279,319.64 for pain and suffering, past unreimbursed medical expenses, and future medical expenses, as well as an amount sufficient to purchase an annuity contract for future medical care, physical therapy, medication, assistive equipment, and attendant care costs.