Shannon Puffinberger v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) (2024)

Shannon Puffinberger filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine received on September 16, 2019. The petition stated the vaccine was administered in the United States, her injury lasted longer than six months, and she had not received prior compensation.

Respondent filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Petitioner was entitled to compensation, agreeing that her condition met the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table and its Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation. Based on this concession and the evidence, entitlement was granted.

Subsequently, Respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, proposing an award of $102,500.00 for pain and suffering, plus $21,826.79 to satisfy a Medicaid lien. Petitioner agreed with this proposed award.

The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding these amounts, totaling $124,326.79, representing compensation for all damages available under the Vaccine Act.