Linda Lykins v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2026)

On January 12, 2021, Linda Lykins filed a petition seeking compensation under the Vaccine Program, alleging shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) after receiving influenza on September 11, 2019. Respondent disputed whether the symptoms were limited to the vaccinated shoulder.

She had no prior left-shoulder pain despite a history of carpal tunnel syndrome and ulnar neuropathy. She initially thought the post-shot pain seemed normal, but it worsened by the next day; on October 1, 2019 she reported left shoulder pain down the arm that started two days after the flu shot, with numbness and pins-and-needles symptoms.

The damages were resolved by proffer after entitlement. On February 18, 2026, Chief Special Master Brian H.

Corcoran adopted the parties' stipulation or proffer, found the disposition reasonable on the record before the Court, and awarded $100,000.00 pain and suffering plus $819.72 unreimbursed expenses. Petitioner was represented by Renee J.

Gentry, The Law Office of Renee J. Gentry, Washington, DC.