Ruby Williams v. HHS - Influenza, right-sided shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2022)

Ruby Williams filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on April 24, 2020, alleging she received an influenza vaccine on October 3, 2018, and subsequently suffered from a right-sided shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA). She further alleged the effects of her injury lasted for more than six months.

The respondent conceded that Petitioner's claim met the Table criteria for SIRVA and that she was entitled to compensation. The respondent specifically agreed that Petitioner had no prior history of shoulder issues, that her pain began within 48 hours of vaccination, that her pain and reduced range of motion were limited to the injected shoulder, and that no other condition explained her symptoms.

Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master found Petitioner entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on April 29, 2022, a decision awarding damages was issued.

The respondent proffered an award of $75,178.92, consisting of $75,000.00 for pain and suffering, $160.00 for past unreimbursed expenses, and $18.92 to satisfy a State of Texas Medicaid lien. Petitioner agreed with this proffered award, and the court ordered the payment accordingly.