Barbara J. Giddens v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder pain and limited range of motion (2025)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
Barbara J. Giddens filed a petition alleging that she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) after receiving an influenza vaccine on December 18, 2017.
The Chief Special Master found that the evidence preponderantly established that Ms. Giddens' shoulder pain began within 48 hours of vaccination, satisfying the Table criteria for SIRVA.
While initial medical records were somewhat inconsistent regarding the exact onset, later records and Ms. Giddens' own affidavit consistently placed the onset within the required timeframe.
The respondent did not contest the remaining SIRVA criteria or other general requirements for entitlement. The court found that Ms.
Giddens was entitled to compensation. Subsequently, a decision awarding damages was issued, granting a total award of $66,621.93.
This amount included $65,000.00 for pain and suffering, $590.44 for past unreimbursable expenses, and $1,031.49 for past lost wages. The award was based on a proffer agreed upon by both parties.