Kristine Eldridge v. HHS - tetanus, right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2024)

Kristine Eldridge filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered a right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) from a tetanus vaccine received on August 30, 2021. She stated that her symptoms persisted for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, initially recommended denial but later conceded entitlement after reviewing additional evidence. The respondent agreed that her injury was consistent with SIRVA as defined by the Vaccine Injury Table, noting that she had no prior shoulder issues, the pain occurred within 48 hours of vaccination, was limited to the injection site, and no other condition explained the pain.

The case proceeded as a Table claim. On October 1, 2024, a decision awarding damages was issued.

The parties stipulated to an award of $123,858.03, which included $120,000.00 for pain and suffering and $3,858.03 for past unreimbursable expenses. This amount was paid as a lump sum to Kristine Eldridge, who is a competent adult.