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

Rita Rekoff filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) after receiving an influenza vaccination on November 20, 2019. The respondent conceded entitlement to compensation, noting that Ms.

Rekoff had no prior history of shoulder issues, her pain and reduced range of motion began within 48 hours of the vaccination, her symptoms were confined to the injection shoulder, and no other condition explained her symptoms. The respondent also agreed that her condition resulted in residual effects for more than six months.

The case proceeded as a Table injury claim. Following the ruling on entitlement, the parties submitted a proffer on award of compensation.

The court awarded Rita Rekoff a total of $102,743.92, comprising $100,000.00 for pain and suffering and $2,743.92 for past unreimbursable expenses. This award was made as a lump sum payment to Ms.

Rekoff, who is a competent adult.