William Watkins v. HHS - Influenza, anaphylaxis and a subsequent peripheral neuropathy (2025)

William Watkins filed a claim in the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on March 2, 2022, alleging that an influenza vaccine received on November 2, 2020, caused anaphylaxis and subsequent peripheral neuropathy. The respondent filed a Rule 4(c) report recommending against compensation.

The petitioner submitted medical records and expert reports, while the respondent also filed an expert report. On January 4, 2025, the petitioner filed a motion for interim attorneys' fees and costs, requesting $36,962.47.

The respondent deferred to the Special Master's discretion regarding the award. The Special Master found that the petition was brought in good faith and with a reasonable basis, supporting an award of interim attorneys' fees and costs.

The court granted the motion, awarding $36,962.47 in interim attorneys' fees and costs to be paid to the petitioner's former counsel.