Alicia Edwards v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2023)

Alicia Edwards filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) caused by an influenza vaccine administered on January 22, 2020. Entitlement was found in her favor on June 16, 2022.

The parties could not agree on the appropriate award for pain and suffering, leading to a hearing. Ms.

Edwards reported left shoulder pain on February 5, 2020, and was diagnosed with adhesive capsulitis and internal derangement. Her treatment involved extensive physical therapy, two steroid injections, two MRIs, manipulation under anesthesia, and arthroscopic surgery over approximately eighteen months.

She submitted affidavits detailing her injury and its impact on her life, supported by her husband's affidavit. Petitioner sought $190,000 for pain and suffering and $5,014.47 for unreimbursed expenses.

Respondent argued for $120,000 for pain and suffering, not disputing the expenses. The court found Ms.

Edwards suffered a mild-to-moderate SIRVA and awarded $173,000.00 for pain and suffering, plus $5,014.47 for unreimbursed expenses, for a total award of $178,014.47.