David Lind v. HHS - Influenza, Chronic Pain Syndrome and/or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) (2026)

On August 19, 2022, David Lind filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccination administered on September 23, 2020 caused chronic pain syndrome and/or chronic fatigue syndrome. The public decision describes him as an adult but does not state his exact age at vaccination.

Mr. Lind had a substantial pre-vaccination medical history, including autism spectrum disorder, PTSD, ADHD, and chronic pain conditions.

After the flu shot at HealthPartners Hillside, he reported headaches, muscle pain, lethargy, and weakness. On October 6, 2020, Dr.

Stiffman saw him for body aches and other complaints and considered an immune reaction to the vaccine. Later rheumatology care with Dr.

Eric Miller and other providers evaluated chronic pain and fatigue symptoms. Petitioner argued that the flu vaccine caused chronic fatigue/chronic pain through immune activation.

Respondent's rheumatology expert, Dr. Roland Staud, disputed the medical theory and emphasized Mr.

Lind's intermittent symptoms and extensive preexisting conditions. The Special Master held that the literature and expert proof did not preponderantly establish that influenza vaccine can cause CFS, and that Mr.

Lind's records did not show a persuasive vaccine-driven course rather than symptoms better explained by his preexisting psychological and chronic pain history. Entitlement was denied on February 17, 2026.