Christyne Ruffolo v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (2024)

Christyne Ruffolo, an adult, received an influenza vaccine on November 20, 2019. She filed a petition for compensation on December 4, 2020, alleging that she suffered from Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of the vaccine and experienced residual effects for more than six months.

Respondent denied that the flu vaccine caused her GBS or any other injury, and denied that her condition was a sequela of a vaccine-related injury. Despite these denials, the parties filed a joint stipulation agreeing to settle the case and award compensation.

Chief Special Master Corcoran adopted the stipulation as her decision. Ms.

Ruffolo was awarded a total of $163,855.27, which included a lump sum of $160,435.49 for first-year life care expenses, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and past unreimbursable expenses. Additionally, $3,419.77 was awarded to reimburse a lien for services rendered to Petitioner by Anthem NV Medicaid.

The stipulation also provided for an annuity contract to cover future life care expenses, including Medicare Part B premiums, Medigap expenses, and other medical costs, with payments increasing annually. The case was resolved via stipulation, with the award reflecting a compromise of the parties' positions.