Laura O’Hara v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2023)

Laura O’Hara filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccination she received on September 20, 2019. The petition was filed on February 1, 2021.

Initially, the Respondent contested entitlement, arguing that Ms. O’Hara had not established a Table injury for GBS and had not proven causation-in-fact.

However, on May 15, 2023, Respondent filed an amended report stating they would no longer defend the case on entitlement, while reserving the right to appeal. Based on the record and Respondent’s position, the Chief Special Master issued a ruling on entitlement on May 31, 2023, finding Ms.

O’Hara entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on August 1, 2023, Respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, agreeing to a total award of $143,627.44, which included $142,500.00 for pain and suffering and $1,127.44 for past unreimbursable expenses.

Ms. O’Hara agreed to this award.

On September 13, 2023, the Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding the stipulated amount, concluding the case.