Christina Anderson v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome ("GBS") (2025)

Christina Anderson filed a petition alleging Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on November 19, 2021. She reported experiencing generalized paresthesias and itching within 24 hours of vaccination, with symptoms progressing over the following week.

Medical records indicated onset of symptoms within 24 hours of vaccination, which is inconsistent with the Table's timeframe for a flu vaccine-GBS claim (3-42 days). The court also considered the claim as an off-Table matter, requiring proof that the vaccine was a substantial factor in causing the injury.

However, a one-day onset of GBS is generally not considered medically acceptable, and Petitioner did not provide evidence to support a faster onset in her specific circumstances. Despite being given an opportunity to show cause why the case should not be dismissed, Petitioner stated no additional evidence existed.

Consequently, the court found that Petitioner failed to establish entitlement by a preponderance of the evidence and dismissed her claim.