Celeste Bodenbender v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2023)

Celeste Bodenbender filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on February 4, 2021, alleging she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on December 2, 2020. Petitioner stated the vaccine was administered in the United States, that she suffered residual effects for more than six months, and that no other compensation had been received for her injury.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report on October 12, 2023, conceding that Petitioner's injury was consistent with a SIRVA and that she met all legal prerequisites for compensation. On October 17, 2023, Chief Special Master Brian H.

Corcoran issued a ruling on entitlement, finding Petitioner entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on November 20, 2023, the respondent filed a proffer recommending an award of $35,000.00 for pain and suffering, which Petitioner agreed to.

Chief Special Master Corcoran issued a decision on November 21, 2023, awarding Celeste Bodenbender a lump sum payment of $35,000.00. Petitioner was represented by Leah VaSahnja Durant of the Law Offices of Leah V.

Durant, PLLC, and the respondent was represented by Bridget Corridon of the U.S. Department of Justice.

The public decision does not describe the specific onset of symptoms, medical tests performed, or treatments received.