Mikayla Elam v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (2024)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On October 4, 2021, Mikayla Elam filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccination administered on September 20, 2019 caused Guillain-Barre syndrome. The public dismissal decision is brief.
It states that the information in the record did not show entitlement to compensation. Ms.
Elam moved for a dismissal decision on October 31, 2024, and the Special Master explained that a petitioner must prove either a Table injury or an injury actually caused by a covered vaccine. Special Master Mindy Michaels Roth dismissed the case for insufficient proof on October 31, 2024.
The public decision does not describe Ms. Elam's onset, neurologic symptoms, diagnostic testing, treatment, expert reports, or why she chose dismissal.
A later October 30, 2025 decision awarded attorneys' fees and costs, finding good faith and reasonable basis for the case during its pendency.
Theory of causation
Adult petitioner; influenza vaccine September 20, 2019; alleged GBS. DISMISSED for insufficient proof after petitioner requested dismissal. Public merits decision states the record did not show entitlement but does not describe clinical evidence or expert opinions. SM Roth October 31, 2024. Petition filed October 4, 2021.