Sungjin Choi v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (2024)

Sungjin Choi filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he developed Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on September 22, 2019. The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit of the Office of Special Masters.

Respondent filed an amended Rule 4(c) report conceding that Petitioner is entitled to compensation, stating that the injury met the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table and Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation. Based on this concession and the record, the Chief Special Master found Petitioner entitled to compensation.

Subsequently, a Proffer on Award of Compensation was filed, with Respondent recommending an award of $171,500.00 for pain and suffering and $8,116.57 for past unreimbursable expenses, totaling $179,616.57. Petitioner agreed with this proffered award.

The Chief Special Master issued a Decision on Damages, awarding the stipulated amount in a lump sum payment to Petitioner, representing compensation for all damages available under the Act.