James Patterson v. HHS - Influenza, bilateral shoulder pathology (2026)

James Patterson, born in 1963, received an influenza vaccine in his left arm and a hepatitis A vaccine in his right arm on November 19, 2019. He filed a petition alleging bilateral shoulder injuries, initially claiming Table SIRVA (Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration) or significant aggravation of pre-existing conditions.

The initial ruling confirmed the vaccines were administered in separate arms. Subsequent expert reports and medical records were reviewed.

The court found that while Patterson had pre-existing shoulder pathology, including prior dislocations and pain, the vaccinations caused a significant aggravation of this condition, specifically leading to bursitis and increased pain. The court determined that the injury met the severity requirement of lasting more than six months, despite a treatment gap during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Entitlement to compensation for a significant aggravation of bilateral shoulder pathology caused by the vaccinations was granted, with a separate damages order to follow.