Kyle Hirst v. HHS - Influenza, left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2026)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On April 9, 2021, Kyle Hirst filed a petition alleging a left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration after receiving an influenza vaccine on October 14, 2020. He was 32 years old and worked as a scientist at Genentech.
In November 2020, Mr. Hirst reported left shoulder pain that had persisted for about a month after vaccination.
Treaters recorded severe soreness after the shot, difficulty lifting overhead, trouble sleeping, difficulty opening doors, limitations at work, and problems lifting his child. Providers considered post-injection deltoid myositis, impingement, cuff or labral injury, adhesive capsulitis, and multifactorial inflammation.
He received physical therapy, steroid injections, ultrasound-guided treatment, and a Tenex procedure in June 2021, with later continued treatment and debate about surgery. Respondent initially opposed entitlement based on onset.
Chief Special Master Brian H. Corcoran credited the medical records and explanations, found a Table SIRVA, and granted entitlement on December 1, 2025.
On February 4, 2026, he adopted the parties' proffer and awarded $120,000.00 for pain and suffering. Mr.
Hirst was represented by Leigh Finfer of Muller Brazil, LLP.
Theory of causation
Influenza vaccine on October 14, 2020 at age 32 causing left SIRVA; onset within 48 hours credited. ENTITLEMENT GRANTED; COMPENSATED. Key evidence: Nov 2020 persistent pain after shot, overhead/sleep/door/work/child-lifting limits; diagnoses/treatments included deltoid myositis, impingement/labral concern, adhesive capsulitis, PT, steroid injections, ultrasound-guided treatment, Tenex procedure. Award $120,000 pain and suffering. Chief SM Brian H. Corcoran; petition April 9, 2021; entitlement December 1, 2025; damages February 4, 2026. Attorney Leigh Finfer.