Carla Amor v. HHS - Influenza, right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2024)

Carla Amor, an adult, received an influenza vaccine on October 29, 2018. She alleged that she suffered a right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) as a result of this vaccination.

The medical records indicate that she experienced immediate pain after the vaccination, which persisted. She sought treatment approximately 23 days later, reporting pain from the flu shot.

Her condition involved shoulder pain and limited range of motion, leading to a diagnosis of subacromial bursitis and later, an MRI showing a tear of the infraspinatus tendon and tendinosis. She underwent arthroscopic surgery on her right shoulder approximately 18 months after vaccination.

The petitioner provided medical records documenting her symptoms, treatment, and recovery, as well as an affidavit detailing her experience. The respondent initially contested entitlement, arguing that the onset of pain was not within 48 hours of vaccination, but later conceded entitlement.

The case proceeded to a decision on entitlement and damages. The court found that the petitioner established by a preponderance of the evidence that her injury met the Table SIRVA criteria, including onset within 48 hours of vaccination, and that she was entitled to compensation.

The court awarded Carla Amor a total of $133,755.03, comprising $130,000.00 for pain and suffering and $3,755.03 for past unreimbursable expenses.