Brandon Farris v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) (2024)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On January 15, 2021, Brandon Farris filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he developed Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on January 31, 2019. Mr.
Farris was 43 years old at the time of vaccination. His petition stated that approximately 11 days after receiving the vaccine, he began experiencing symptoms including congestion and muscle aches, followed by generalized body aches, numbness between his toes, generalized weakness, pain in his bilateral thighs and the dorsum of his feet, difficulty urinating, nausea, and a mild headache.
He also reported bilateral tingling in his extremities and difficulty walking. His condition progressed, leading to hospitalization for fifteen days, including a five-day course of intravenous immune globulin (IVIG) and inpatient rehabilitation.
Medical records documented progressive weakness, pain, and difficulty with mobility, requiring assistance with walking and feeding tubes. He underwent physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech language therapy.
Although he showed improvement over time, he experienced residual weakness, pain, and decreased range of motion in his right shoulder, which he reported continued to affect his professional trajectory and recreational pursuits. The respondent conceded entitlement, agreeing that Mr.
Farris met the criteria for a Table injury. The parties were unable to agree on all damages components, leading to a hearing on March 28, 2024.
Chief Special Master Brian H. Corcoran issued a decision on April 16, 2024, awarding Mr.
Farris $184,899.43 in total compensation. This amount comprised $175,000.00 for past pain and suffering, $3,514.69 for past unreimbursable expenses, and $6,384.74 for lost wages.
Petitioner was represented by Leah VaSahnja Durant of the Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC, and Respondent was represented by Alexa Roggenkamp of the U.S.
Department of Justice.