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

Rosalind Paaswell filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program alleging a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) from an influenza vaccination she received on October 7, 2020. She claimed the injury resulted in residual effects lasting more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that her injury was consistent with SIRVA as defined by the Vaccine Injury Table. The respondent confirmed that Ms.

Paaswell had no prior shoulder issues, the pain occurred within 48 hours of the vaccination, was limited to the injection site, and no other condition explained the pain. They also agreed that she suffered residual effects for more than six months, satisfying the legal prerequisites for compensation.

Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master issued a ruling on entitlement, finding Ms. Paaswell entitled to compensation.

Subsequently, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, recommending $50,000.00 for pain and suffering, which Ms. Paaswell agreed to.

The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding Ms. Paaswell a lump sum payment of $50,000.00 for pain and suffering.