Heather Middelkoop v. HHS - Influenza, Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) (2022)

Heather Middelkoop filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccine she received on January 11, 2017, caused her to develop a Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA). The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit.

On March 25, 2021, the respondent conceded that the claim met the Table criteria for SIRVA and that Petitioner was entitled to compensation. The respondent agreed that Petitioner had no prior history of shoulder issues, that her pain began within 48 hours of vaccination, and that her symptoms were localized to the injection site.

Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, entitlement to compensation was granted. Subsequently, on February 7, 2022, the respondent filed a proffer proposing an award of $123,429.63, which included $115,000.00 for pain and suffering and $8,429.63 for past unreimbursable expenses.

Petitioner agreed with this proffered award. The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding the full proffered amount, payable as a lump sum to Petitioner, who is a competent adult.