Elizabeth Cimino v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome ("GBS") (2025)

Elizabeth Cimino filed a petition alleging Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine received on October 29, 2021. The respondent argued that the petitioner failed to demonstrate she suffered from GBS or that the vaccination caused it.

The Special Master issued an Order to Show Cause, finding that the petitioner would likely be unable to establish GBS and offering an opportunity to amend the petition to allege an off-Table injury. On June 20, 2025, the petitioner filed an Amended Petition alleging a demyelinating disease and neuropathy caused by the vaccine and agreed to dismiss the GBS claim.

The decision notes that none of the petitioner's treating providers diagnosed her with GBS, and diagnostic testing was not indicative of GBS. The Special Master dismissed the GBS claim, and the case will proceed as an off-Table claim for demyelinating disease and neuropathy.