Heidi Seiken v. HHS - Tdap, Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) (2021)

Heidi Seiken filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered a Table injury, Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA), as a result of her Tetanus Diphtheria acellular Pertussis (Tdap) vaccination on July 22, 2019. She further alleged that she suffered residual effects for more than six months and had no prior award or settlement.

The Respondent conceded that Petitioner is entitled to compensation, agreeing that her claim met the Table criteria for SIRVA, including onset of pain within forty-eight hours of vaccination and reduced range of motion limited to the affected shoulder. The Respondent also confirmed the case was timely filed, the vaccine was received in the United States, and Petitioner met the statutory severity requirement.

Based on the Respondent's concession and the evidence, entitlement to compensation was granted. Subsequently, a decision awarding damages was issued.

The Respondent proffered an award of $129,271.41, comprising $125,000.00 for pain and suffering and $4,271.41 for past unreimbursed expenses, which Petitioner agreed to. The court awarded Heidi Seiken a lump sum payment of $129,271.41.