Mary Rybicki v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) (2022)

Mary Rybicki filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) caused by an influenza vaccine she received on September 25, 2019. The petition stated that she received the vaccine in the United States, suffered residual effects for more than six months, and had not filed any civil suit or received compensation for her GBS.

The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit. Respondent filed a combined Rule 4(c) Report and Proffer, conceding that Petitioner was entitled to compensation.

Respondent believed that Petitioner satisfied the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table and the Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation, and agreed that all statutory and jurisdictional requirements for compensation had been met. Based on Respondent's concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master issued a ruling on entitlement.

Subsequently, a decision awarding damages was issued. Respondent's Rule 4(c) Report and Proffer indicated that Petitioner should be awarded $225,000.00 for her pain and suffering, and Petitioner agreed with this proffered award.

The Chief Special Master awarded Petitioner a lump sum payment of $225,000.00 for her pain and suffering.