Eden Williams v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2024)

Eden Williams filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) after receiving the influenza vaccine on October 12, 2017. Respondent conceded entitlement, finding that Petitioner satisfied the criteria for a Table Injury.

A Ruling on Entitlement was issued on March 19, 2021. The parties were unable to settle damages, leading to a decision awarding damages on March 4, 2024.

Petitioner sought $135,000 for pain and suffering, plus expenses and lost wages, arguing her SIRVA was moderately severe and required surgery. Respondent argued for a lesser award, citing mild injury and intervening conditions.

The court found that Petitioner suffered a mild to moderate SIRVA that largely resolved by May 2018, but subsequent shoulder issues were complicated by a fall, rheumatoid arthritis, and other factors, and were not proven to be vaccine-related. Therefore, the court awarded $80,000 for actual pain and suffering, denying claims for past medical expenses and lost wages as not proven to be vaccine-related.

The total award was $80,000.