Ronald L. Jopes v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2023)

Ronald L. Jopes filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) resulting from an influenza vaccine received on November 5, 2020.

He alleged the vaccine was administered in the United States, the residual effects of his injuries continued for more than six months, and he had not received prior compensation for his injuries. The respondent conceded that the petitioner's claim met the Table criteria for SIRVA, noting that he had no prior shoulder issues, experienced pain within 48 hours of vaccination, and the pain was limited to the affected shoulder.

The respondent also agreed that the case was timely filed, the vaccine was administered in the U.S., and the petitioner met the statutory severity requirement. Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master found the petitioner entitled to compensation.

Subsequently, a decision awarding damages was issued, granting a lump sum payment of $175,989.99, which included $175,000.00 for pain and suffering and $989.99 for past unreimbursable expenses.