Helen Pichardo v. HHS - Influenza, left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2021)

Helen Pichardo filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she received an influenza vaccination on October 3, 2018, and thereafter suffered a left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA). The respondent conceded that Ms.

Pichardo is entitled to compensation, agreeing that her injury satisfied the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table and the Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation for SIRVA. The respondent confirmed that Ms.

Pichardo had no prior history of shoulder issues, her pain and reduced range of motion occurred within 48 hours of the vaccination, her symptoms were limited to the affected shoulder, and no other condition explained her symptoms. An entitlement ruling was issued on August 10, 2021, finding Ms.

Pichardo entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on November 17, 2021, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, recommending an award of $80,000.00 for all damages, including pain and suffering, to which Ms.

Pichardo agreed. The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding Ms.

Pichardo a lump sum payment of $80,000.00.