Kaitlin McKenzie v. HHS - Influenza, left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2022)

Kaitlin McKenzie filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on February 16, 2022, alleging she suffered a left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) after receiving an influenza vaccination on October 2, 2019. She further alleged her injuries lasted more than six months.

The respondent conceded entitlement, stating that Ms. McKenzie had no prior history of left shoulder issues, that pain occurred within 48 hours of the vaccination, was limited to the injection site, and no other condition explained the pain.

The respondent also agreed that her residual effects lasted more than six months. Based on the concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master found Ms.

McKenzie entitled to compensation for a Table SIRVA. A subsequent decision on June 13, 2022, awarded Ms.

McKenzie $135,590.73 in a lump sum payment. This award included $125,000.00 for pain and suffering, $6,760.98 for past unreimbursed expenses, and $3,829.75 for past lost wages, representing all damages available under the Act.