Andrew Schaefer v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2024)

Andrew Schaefer filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging he suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) following an influenza vaccination on December 2, 2021. The respondent conceded that Petitioner's injury was consistent with SIRVA as defined by the Vaccine Injury Table, noting he had no prior history of shoulder issues, the pain occurred within 48 hours of the vaccination, was limited to the injection site, and no other condition explained the pain.

The respondent agreed that Petitioner met all legal prerequisites for compensation. A ruling on entitlement was issued on November 27, 2023, finding Petitioner entitled to compensation.

Subsequently, on January 26, 2024, the respondent filed a proffer on damages, proposing an award of $55,391.36, which included $55,000.00 for pain and suffering and $391.36 for past unreimbursable expenses. Petitioner agreed with this proffered award.

The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding Petitioner the lump sum of $55,391.36 on February 29, 2024.