James Hollinger v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (2025)

On April 12, 2023, James Hollinger filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccination administered on October 20, 2020 caused Guillain-Barre syndrome. Mr.

Hollinger died on November 3, 2023, and his sons, John Hollinger and Mark Hollinger, were appointed as personal representatives of his estate. Respondent conceded entitlement.

The Rule 4(c) report agreed that the case satisfied the Vaccine Injury Table and Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation for GBS after seasonal influenza vaccination: onset occurred between three and forty-two days after vaccination, and there was no apparent alternative cause. Chief Special Master Brian H.

Corcoran found entitlement on February 13, 2024. The public entitlement ruling does not describe Mr.

Hollinger's first neurologic symptoms, hospitalization, diagnostic testing, treatment, rehabilitation, or the circumstances of his later death. After entitlement was granted, respondent filed a proffer and the estate representatives agreed to the award.

On November 12, 2025, the Chief Special Master awarded $568,405.52 as a lump sum through counsel's IOLTA account. The award consisted of $212,700.00 for past pain and suffering, $212,891.52 for past unreimbursable expenses, and $142,814.00 for past lost wages.

The decision noted that documentation of John and Mark Hollinger's representative capacity had been provided. Petitioners were represented by Bridget Candace McCullough of Muller Brazil, LLP.