Deborah Helldoerfer v. HHS - Hepatitis A, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2024)

Deborah Helldoerfer filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program alleging she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) after receiving a Hepatitis A vaccination on July 8, 2020. She further alleged that her injury persisted for more than six months.

The respondent conceded that Petitioner's injury was consistent with SIRVA as defined by the Vaccine Injury Table, noting she had no prior shoulder issues, the pain occurred within 48 hours of vaccination, was limited to the injection site, and no other condition explained the pain. The respondent also agreed that she suffered residual effects for over six months.

Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master ruled that Petitioner was entitled to compensation. Subsequently, a decision awarding damages was issued.

The parties agreed to a proffer of compensation totaling $124,479.62. This award included $120,000.00 for pain and suffering, $1,551.86 for past unreimbursable expenses, and $2,927.76 for past lost wages.

The award was to be paid as a lump sum to Deborah Helldoerfer.