William Parkinson v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) (2024)

William Parkinson filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on September 10, 2021. He claimed that his injury was a Table Injury and that he experienced residual effects for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Mr. Parkinson was entitled to compensation.

The respondent agreed that the injury was a Table Injury for GBS following a flu vaccine, that the symptom onset occurred within the Table's specified timeframe (three to forty-two days), that there was no more likely alternative diagnosis, and that no exclusionary criteria were met. The respondent also agreed that Mr.

Parkinson suffered the sequelae of his injury for more than six months and met all other legal requirements. Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, entitlement to compensation was granted.

Subsequently, a decision awarding damages was issued. The respondent proffered an award of $112,500.00 for pain and suffering and $33,728.41 for lost wages, which Mr.

Parkinson agreed to. The total award amounted to $146,228.41, to be paid as a lump sum.

The case was filed on September 9, 2022, and the final decision awarding damages was issued on May 16, 2024.