Paul Longo v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (2024)

Paul Longo filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on September 12, 2019. The petition was filed on February 2, 2021.

Respondent conceded that Petitioner was entitled to compensation, finding that he satisfied the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table. Entitlement was granted on February 9, 2022.

The parties later reached an impasse on the appropriate award for pain and suffering. The damages decision, issued on January 22, 2024, awarded Mr.

Longo $160,000.00 for pain and suffering and $3,910.58 for unreimbursed expenses, for a total award of $163,910.58. Mr.

Longo experienced symptoms approximately fourteen days after vaccination, including tingling and numbness in his extremities, which led to a diagnosis of GBS. His treatment included hospitalization, IVIG, and physical therapy.

The court found that Mr. Longo experienced a mild-to-moderate case of GBS with a good recovery and mild sequelae.