Laura Hamilton v. HHS - DTaP, transverse myelitis (2026)

On January 21, 2020, Laura Hamilton filed a petition on behalf of her minor child, D.H., alleging that D.H. developed transverse myelitis after receiving DTaP, hepatitis B, Hib, IPV, pneumococcal conjugate, and rotavirus vaccinations on February 15, 2017. Respondent denied that any of the vaccinations caused D.H.'s transverse myelitis.

The public stipulation does not describe D.H.'s first symptoms, onset interval, diagnostic testing, hospitalization, steroid or other treatment, rehabilitation, or residual limitations. The decision notes that an electronic signature page was omitted from the public attachment to protect confidential information.

The parties nevertheless settled the case. On January 20, 2026, Special Master Mindy Michaels Roth adopted the stipulation and awarded $14,041.43 for past unreimbursed expenses, $9,468.37 to reimburse a South Dakota Department of Social Services Medicaid lien, and $135,000.00 to purchase an annuity, for identified compensation of $158,509.80.