Marilyn Hendricks v. HHS - Influenza, vasovagal syncope (2025)

Marilyn Hendricks filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on July 23, 2019, alleging that she suffered vasovagal syncope as a result of an influenza vaccine received on October 11, 2017. The respondent filed a Rule 4(c) report on September 11, 2020, conceding that Ms.

Hendricks was entitled to compensation, as she met the criteria for a Table injury with a presumption of causation and experienced more than six months of residual effects. Chief Special Master Brian H.

Corcoran issued a Ruling on Entitlement on September 15, 2020, finding Ms. Hendricks entitled to compensation.

A damages hearing was held on June 10, 2025, as the parties could not agree on all damages components. Ms.

Hendricks, a 23-year-old recruiter, received the flu vaccine on October 11, 2017. Shortly after, she fainted and fell, sustaining significant facial and dental injuries, including multiple mandibular fractures, fractured teeth, and lacerations.

She underwent extensive medical treatment over 18 months, including multiple surgeries, dental procedures, root canals, crowns, implants, and physical therapy for jaw, neck, and shoulder pain. She experienced considerable pain, anxiety, and emotional distress.

The Special Master awarded Ms. Hendricks a total of $335,661.74 in compensation.

This amount included $250,000.00 for actual pain and suffering, $78,661.74 for past unreimbursable expenses, and $7,000.00 for future medical care. The decision was issued by Chief Special Master Brian H.

Corcoran on September 9, 2025. Petitioner's counsel was Douglas Alan Pettit of Pettit Kohn Ingrassia Lutz & Dolin, and respondent's counsel was Jennifer Leigh Reynaud of the U.S.

Department of Justice.