Ellen A. Mintzer v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (2025)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On October 21, 2022, Ellen A. Mintzer filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccine administered on October 8, 2019 caused Guillain-Barre syndrome.
The public decision identifies her as an adult petitioner but does not state her exact age. Respondent recommended against compensation in a March 26, 2025 Rule 4(c) report, stating that the medical records did not establish GBS.
The court ordered petitioner to file an expert report, and after two extensions Ms. Mintzer moved for voluntary dismissal under Vaccine Rule 21(b)(1).
On November 4, 2025, Special Master Thomas L. Gowen dismissed the petition.
He found that the record did not contain a medical record or medical opinion sufficient to show by preponderant evidence that Ms. Mintzer suffered a vaccine-caused injury.
No compensation was awarded.
Theory of causation
Adult petitioner; influenza vaccine October 8, 2019; alleged GBS. DISMISSED. Respondent's Rule 4(c) report stated the records did not establish GBS; petitioner was ordered to obtain an expert report, received extensions, and then moved for voluntary dismissal. SM Thomas L. Gowen dismissed November 4, 2025 for insufficient source-supported proof of a vaccine-caused injury. No award. Petition filed October 21, 2022. Attorney Ryan K. O'Hara, Bacon Wilson.
Source PDFs
USCOURTS-cofc-1_22-vv-01565