Michael Blackmon v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2022)

Michael Blackmon filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on January 10, 2022, alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) after receiving an influenza (flu) vaccination on December 5, 2018. He stated that the vaccination occurred in the United States, his injury lasted for more than six months, and he had not received prior compensation for vaccine-related injuries.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Mr. Blackmon is entitled to compensation.

The respondent reviewed the petition and medical records and concluded that Mr. Blackmon satisfied the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table and the Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation.

The respondent also agreed that the scope of damages should be limited to Mr. Blackmon's GBS and its related sequelae.

Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master ruled that Mr. Blackmon is entitled to compensation, with the case proceeding to determine the award amount.