Michael P. Ohlsen v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2023)

Michael Ohlsen filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that an influenza vaccination he received on October 11, 2018, caused him to suffer Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS). The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, conceded that Mr.

Ohlsen was entitled to compensation. The respondent's medical personnel reviewed the petition and medical records and determined that Mr.

Ohlsen satisfied the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table for GBS, which affords a presumption of causation if the onset occurs between three and forty-two days after a seasonal flu vaccination and there is no apparent alternative cause. A ruling on entitlement was issued on April 7, 2023, finding Mr.

Ohlsen entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on October 30, 2023, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, recommending an award of $140,000.00 for pain and suffering.

Mr. Ohlsen agreed with this proffered award.

Based on the record, the Chief Special Master awarded Mr. Ohlsen a lump sum payment of $140,000.00 for pain and suffering.