Jose Ruiz v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (2025)

On December 3, 2021, Jose Ruiz filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccine administered on September 17, 2019 caused Guillain-Barre syndrome. Mr.

Ruiz was born on October 16, 1975, making him 43 years old at vaccination. The clinical story began about one month later.

On October 16, 2019, he developed dizziness and tingling in his legs. Between November 1 and November 7, 2019, he was admitted to Kaiser Foundation Hospital for progressive ascending numbness and tingling.

Respondent opposed entitlement, arguing that the records did not establish bilateral flaccid limb weakness and that symptoms were focused on the face with numbness and tingling rather than qualifying weakness. Chief Special Master Corcoran ruled that the Table GBS criteria were met.

He found sufficient evidence of bilateral flaccid limb weakness, a qualifying onset-to-nadir interval, a plateau, and no more likely alternative diagnosis. Entitlement was granted on February 21, 2025.

Respondent later proffered damages, and Mr. Ruiz agreed.

On May 13, 2025, he was awarded $106,995.19, consisting of $105,000.00 for pain and suffering and $1,995.19 for past unreimbursable expenses.