Valerie Murphy v. HHS - Influenza, peripheral neuropathy in her legs (2022)

Valerie Murphy received an influenza vaccination on December 4, 2017. She claims this vaccination caused peripheral neuropathy in her legs.

The parties disputed the onset date of her symptoms. A fact hearing was held to determine this issue.

Ms. Murphy testified credibly that she began experiencing sporadic muscle twitching in her legs around December 10, 2017, approximately six days after her vaccination.

Medical records from January 29, 2018, were consistent with her testimony. The Special Master found that preponderant evidence showed her muscle twitching began around December 10, 2017.

This ruling determined the onset date but did not resolve all issues, as Ms. Murphy still bears the burden of establishing vaccine causation.

Expert reports are likely to be necessary to support causation, and the parties may explore settlement. The case was set to proceed with a status report on next steps.