Bobbie Henderson v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (2024)

Bobbie Henderson filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on October 13, 2021. She stated that her injury was an "on-table" condition, meaning it is listed on the Vaccine Injury Table, and that she met the criteria for a presumed causation.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, reviewed the petition and medical records and conceded that Ms. Henderson was entitled to compensation.

The respondent's Rule 4(c) report confirmed that her GBS onset occurred within the Table's specified timeframe after a flu vaccination and that there was no apparent alternative cause. Based on this concession, the Chief Special Master issued a ruling on entitlement, finding Ms.

Henderson eligible for compensation. Subsequently, the parties submitted a proffer on the award of compensation.

The respondent proposed an award of $205,490.64, which Ms. Henderson agreed to.

This amount includes compensation for life care expenses for the first year ($48,927.30), pain and suffering ($154,000.00), and past unreimbursable expenses ($2,563.34). The award also includes an amount sufficient to purchase an annuity contract for future life care items.

The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding the total compensation as stated in the proffer, directing the Clerk of Court to enter judgment accordingly.