Kathleen Keleher v. HHS - Tdap, left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2025)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
Kathleen Keleher, an adult, received a Tdap vaccine in her left deltoid on June 9, 2020. She alleged a left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA), which is a Table Injury.
The respondent conceded entitlement, agreeing that Ms. Keleher met the criteria for SIRVA following the Tdap vaccine.
The case proceeded to a damages decision. Ms.
Keleher sought $205,000.00 for pain and suffering, citing extensive treatment including a Medrol dose pack, x-rays, two surgeries, and 42 sessions of physical and occupational therapy over approximately two and a half to three years. The respondent argued for $127,500.00, emphasizing a statement Ms.
Keleher made in January 2022 that she was mostly pain-free. The court reviewed the medical records, noting moderate SIRVA injury requiring multiple treatments and surgeries, with pain levels generally mild to moderate, though heightened by delays and a concurrent tibial plateau fracture.
The court found the injury lasted approximately 21 months. Comparing the case to precedent, the court determined that Ms.
Keleher's injury was less severe and of shorter duration than in some cited cases. Ultimately, the court awarded Ms.
Keleher $180,000.00 for pain and suffering and $7,112.40 for unreimbursed expenses, for a total award of $187,112.40.