Linda Brantley-Karasinski v. HHS - Influenza, Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) (2023)

Linda Brantley-Karasinski, an adult, received an influenza vaccine on October 8, 2019. Within 48 hours, she developed right-side Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA), characterized by shoulder pain and limited range of motion.

She sought compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging her injury was a Table injury. The respondent initially contested entitlement, arguing that her pain and reduced range of motion were not limited solely to the shoulder.

However, the court found that the evidence predominantly supported her claim, establishing entitlement to compensation. The case then proceeded to damages.

Petitioner requested $130,000 for pain and suffering and $721.11 for unreimbursed medical expenses, citing extensive treatment including surgery and physical therapy. Respondent proposed $110,000 for pain and suffering.

The court awarded Linda Brantley-Karasinski a total of $125,721.11, comprising $125,000.00 for pain and suffering and $721.11 for medical expenses, finding her injury comparable to other SIRVA cases but slightly less severe than the primary comparable cited.