Christa Cardenas v. HHS - Influenza, Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) (2021)

Christa Cardenas filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on April 27, 2021, alleging that she suffered shoulder injuries as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on October 31, 2018. The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit.

Respondent conceded that Petitioner is entitled to compensation, concluding that she meets the criteria for a presumed Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) as defined by the Vaccine Injury Table and that the statutory six-month sequela requirement has been satisfied. Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, entitlement to compensation was granted.

Subsequently, on May 10, 2021, Respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, indicating that Petitioner should be awarded $58,039.67. This amount includes $55,000.00 for pain and suffering, $506.34 for lost wages, $2,213.00 for unreimbursable medical expenses, and $320.33 to satisfy a Texas Medicaid lien.

Petitioner agreed with this proffered award. The Chief Special Master awarded the total sum of $58,040, representing compensation for all damages available under the Vaccine Act.