Teresa Knowles v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2024)

Teresa Knowles filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on October 13, 2021, alleging she suffered Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccination received on October 4, 2018. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report on May 18, 2023, conceding that Ms.

Knowles's claim met the criteria for a Table injury, specifically GBS, and that she was entitled to compensation. The ruling on entitlement was issued by Chief Special Master Brian H.

Corcoran on May 31, 2023. Subsequently, on March 21, 2024, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, agreeing to a total award of $217,326.00.

This amount was comprised of $180,000.00 for pain and suffering and $37,326.00 for past out-of-pocket medical expenses. Ms.

Knowles, being a competent adult, agreed with the proffered award. Chief Special Master Brian H.

Corcoran issued a decision awarding the stipulated amount on March 22, 2024, concluding the case. The public decision does not describe the onset of symptoms, specific clinical details of the GBS, diagnostic tests performed, or treatments received.

Petitioner counsel was Todd Rayan of Althauser Rayan Abbarno, LLP, and respondent counsel was Debra A. Filteau Begley of the U.S.

Department of Justice.