Brooke Offhaus v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2022)

Brooke Offhaus filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she developed Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) after receiving an influenza vaccine on October 10, 2018. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, conceded that Ms.

Offhaus was entitled to compensation, agreeing that her condition met the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table and its Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation. The case proceeded as a Table injury claim.

A ruling on entitlement was issued on March 7, 2022, finding Ms. Offhaus entitled to compensation.

Subsequently, on October 7, 2022, a decision awarding damages was issued based on a proffer agreed upon by both parties. Ms.

Offhaus, an adult, was awarded a total of $99,633.75. This award comprised $95,000.00 for pain and suffering, $1,410.00 for past unreimbursable expenses, and $3,223.75 for past lost wages.

The compensation was provided as a lump sum payment directly to Ms. Offhaus.