Kristie Rinier v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2025)

Kristie Rinier, an adult, received an influenza vaccine on October 29, 2019. She alleged that she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) as a result of this vaccination.

The medical records indicated that her shoulder pain began immediately after the flu shot, and she reported ongoing pain and reduced range of motion. She sought treatment from her primary care provider, physical therapists, and a neurologist.

The respondent initially argued that Ms. Rinier could not meet the Vaccine Act's severity requirement and that her pain did not occur within 48 hours of vaccination, nor was it solely attributable to the vaccine.

However, the court found that Ms. Rinier had established the requirements for a Table SIRVA, including that her injury manifested within 48 hours of vaccination, her pain was limited to her left shoulder, and there was no other condition that better explained her symptoms.

The court also found that she met the six-month severity requirement. The case proceeded as a Table claim, and the parties later stipulated to damages.

Chief Special Master Corcoran awarded Kristie Rinier $47,500.00 for pain and suffering.