Terry Boyd v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) (2025)

On May 15, 2023, Terry Boyd filed a petition alleging Guillain-Barré syndrome after an influenza vaccination administered on November 24, 2020. Respondent conceded entitlement, stating that Mr.

Boyd suffered GBS after the flu vaccine and that there was no evidence the GBS was due to an unrelated factor. Chief Special Master Brian H.

Corcoran granted entitlement on April 8, 2024. The parties could not resolve damages, so the court held an expedited damages hearing on May 30, 2025.

The damages decision described a moderately severe acute GBS phase requiring emergency presentation, hospitalization, IVIG treatment, and inpatient rehabilitation with physical and occupational therapy. Mr.

Boyd also received injections for neuropathy from May 2021 through February 2022. His GBS-related treatment lasted roughly 12 to 14 months after discharge, and he described lingering weakness, numbness and coldness in his left hand, and limitations in daily life and retirement activities.

Mr. Boyd requested $175,000.00; respondent proposed $112,500.00.

The Special Master found that the injury warranted a higher-than-average GBS award because of the acute treatment and lingering deficits, but that it was not among the most severe cases because Mr. Boyd had a comparatively good recovery and was not left non-ambulatory or permanently disabled.

On June 3, 2025, he awarded $167,500.00 for actual pain and suffering.