Alma Howze v. HHS - Tdap, right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2021)

Alma Howze filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on February 4, 2021, alleging she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) from a Tdap vaccine received on March 9, 2018. She stated the vaccine was administered in the United States, she experienced residual effects for over six months, and had no prior award or settlement for her condition.

Respondent denied that Ms. Howze sustained a Table SIRVA or that the Tdap vaccine caused her injury.

Despite these differing positions, the parties filed a joint stipulation agreeing to settle the case and award compensation. The court adopted the stipulation, awarding Ms.

Howze a lump sum of $30,000.00 for all items of damages available under the Vaccine Act. This amount represents a compromise of the parties' respective positions on liability and damages.

The decision was entered on March 10, 2021.