Hema Mullur v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2024)

Hema Mullur filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered a Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) caused by an influenza vaccine administered on September 26, 2020. She reported right shoulder pain shortly after the vaccination, which worsened over time.

Medical records indicated tenosynovitis and nerve inflammation, and an MRI showed signs consistent with SIRVA. Despite a dispute regarding which shoulder received the vaccine, the Chief Special Master found that the evidence preponderantly supported a right-side vaccine administration and a Table SIRVA injury.

The court found that Mullur met the criteria for a Table SIRVA, including no prior shoulder issues, onset within 48 hours of vaccination, and pain limited to the right shoulder. She also met the general requirements for entitlement, such as receiving the vaccine in the United States and having no prior civil award.

Consequently, Mullur was found entitled to compensation. A subsequent decision awarded her $38,037.99, comprising $37,500.00 for pain and suffering and $537.99 for past unreimbursable expenses.