Lisa Helfrich v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2022)

Lisa Helfrich filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program alleging she suffered Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on August 1, 2018. The respondent conceded that Petitioner is entitled to compensation, agreeing that her GBS was a Table injury following the flu vaccine, provided the onset occurred between three and forty-two days after vaccination and there was no more likely alternative diagnosis or apparent alternative cause.

The ruling on entitlement was issued on January 7, 2021, finding Petitioner entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on January 5, 2022, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation.

The parties agreed to a total award of $140,156.18, which included $125,500.00 for pain and suffering, $5,955.09 for past unreimbursable expenses, and $8,701.09 in past lost wages. The decision awarding damages was issued on February 7, 2022, granting the lump sum payment to Lisa Helfrich.