Lauren Blinder v. HHS - Influenza, Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) (2024)

Lauren Blinder filed a petition on March 13, 2023, seeking compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. She alleged that she received an influenza vaccine on October 10, 2020, and subsequently suffered a Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA), which is a "Table injury." Petitioner claimed the vaccine was administered in the United States, that she experienced residual effects for more than six months, and that there had been no prior award or settlement for her condition.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the flu vaccine caused Petitioner's alleged left shoulder injury or any other injury, and denied that Petitioner sustained a SIRVA Table injury. Despite these opposing positions, the parties reached a joint stipulation to settle the case.

Chief Special Master Brian H. Corcoran reviewed the stipulation and adopted it as the decision of the court.

As per the stipulation, Lauren Blinder was awarded a lump sum of $45,000.00, payable by check to Petitioner, as compensation for all damages. This award represents a compromise of the parties' respective positions on liability and damages.

The stipulation also outlines the process for awarding reasonable attorneys' fees and costs, which will be addressed in further proceedings after judgment entry. Petitioner was represented by Ronald Craig Homer of Conway, Homer, P.C., and Respondent was represented by Kimberly Shubert Davey of the U.S.

Department of Justice. The decision was issued on August 8, 2024.