Katelin Whiddon v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2023)

Katelin Whiddon filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) as a result of an influenza vaccination received on September 18, 2020. She further alleged that her symptoms persisted for more than six months.

The respondent conceded that Petitioner is entitled to compensation, stating that she had no prior history of shoulder issues, her pain occurred within 48 hours of the vaccination, was limited to the injection site, and no other condition explained the pain. The respondent also agreed that her condition had residual effects for more than six months, satisfying all legal prerequisites for compensation.

A ruling on entitlement was issued on September 11, 2023, finding Petitioner entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on November 6, 2023, a decision awarding damages was issued.

The parties stipulated to an award of $108,892.93, which included $107,500.00 for pain and suffering and $1,392.93 for past unreimbursable expenses. This amount was awarded as a lump sum payment to Katelin Whiddon.