Walter C. Holtzhafer v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (2024)

Walter C. Holtzhafer filed a petition alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine he received on November 19, 2020.

GBS is a condition listed on the Vaccine Injury Table, and the respondent conceded that Mr. Holtzhafer met the criteria for a Table injury.

The respondent agreed that there was no more likely alternative diagnosis and no apparent alternative cause for his GBS. Mr.

Holtzhafer died on October 15, 2023, from causes unrelated to the vaccination. His estate's administrator, Brian C.

Holtzhafer, was substituted as the petitioner. On January 22, 2024, the court issued a ruling on entitlement, finding the petitioner entitled to compensation.

Subsequently, on February 22, 2024, the respondent filed a proffer on the award of compensation, which the petitioner agreed to. The court awarded a lump sum of $212,000.00 for pain and suffering, representing all damages available under the Vaccine Act.