Billy Sword v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (2022)

Billy Sword filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine he received on September 19, 2018. The petition stated that the vaccine was administered in the United States, Mr.

Sword suffered residual effects for more than six months, and no lawsuits had been filed. Following Mr.

Sword's death on December 8, 2021, his wife, Barbara Sword, was named personal representative of his estate and substituted as the petitioner. The respondent conceded that Mr.

Sword was entitled to compensation, as his GBS was a Table injury with onset within the specified timeframe and no apparent alternative cause. An entitlement ruling was issued on October 31, 2022.

Subsequently, on November 16, 2022, the respondent filed a proffer agreeing to an award of $240,222.23, which included $240,000.00 for pain and suffering and $222.23 for past unreimbursable expenses. Petitioner agreed with this proffered award.

The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding this lump sum payment to Barbara Sword, as personal representative of the estate, on December 27, 2022.