Karen Hoffken v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (2024)

Karen Hoffken filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine she received on September 3, 2021. She also received a human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine on the same date, but alleged only the flu vaccine caused her GBS.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Ms. Hoffken was entitled to compensation.

The respondent agreed that her GBS satisfied the Table and QAI requirements for a presumption of causation, provided the onset occurred within the specified timeframe and there was no more likely alternative diagnosis or apparent alternative cause. A ruling on entitlement was issued on March 19, 2024, finding Ms.

Hoffken entitled to compensation. Subsequently, on June 27, 2024, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, agreeing to an award of $275,461.02.

Ms. Hoffken agreed with this proffered award, which included $235,000.00 for pain and suffering, $22,788.81 for past unreimbursable expenses, and $17,672.21 for past lost wages.

The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding Ms. Hoffken the lump sum of $275,461.02 on July 30, 2024.