Rhonda Angerosa v. HHS - Influenza, left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2025)

On August 19, 2022, Rhonda Angerosa filed a petition alleging a left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration after an influenza vaccine administered in her left arm on October 13, 2021. She was 53 years old at vaccination.

Chief Special Master Brian H. Corcoran granted entitlement on January 9, 2024.

Damages did not resolve informally, so the case proceeded through briefing and an expedited Motions Day hearing. The record showed that on November 18, 2021, 36 days after vaccination, Ms.

Angerosa reported left arm pain since the vaccination, describing a painful shot with some bleeding and symptoms she expected would resolve. Examination showed tenderness and reduced range of motion.

Her treatment included medical appointments, MRI imaging, physical therapy, a left shoulder arthroscopy, and later manipulation under anesthesia. Ms.

Angerosa sought $170,000.00 for pain and suffering. Respondent proposed $90,000.00 and compared the case to lower-valued SIRVA awards.

Ms. Angerosa described ongoing effects after surgery and recovery, including nights when her arm still hurt and temporary pain with overhead reaching.

On July 7, 2025, Chief Special Master Corcoran awarded $166,274.65: $165,000.00 for actual pain and suffering, $225.02 for out-of-pocket unreimbursed expenses, and $1,049.63 for lost wages. A later March 6, 2026 decision awarded attorney's fees and costs only; it did not change the injury-compensation award.