Jerry Gene Belt v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (2025)

Jerry Gene Belt filed a petition on May 30, 2023, alleging that an influenza vaccine received on September 7, 2021, caused Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). This decision addresses an interim award of attorneys' fees and costs.

The petitioner initially sought $51,117.98 in fees and costs. Respondent deferred to the Special Master's determination.

The Special Master reviewed the billing records and hourly rates, finding them reasonable. However, a reduction was made for non-compensable administrative tasks such as filing and mailing documents, and for minor discrepancies in medical record costs.

Ultimately, the court awarded $43,034.30 in attorneys' fees and $3,871.88 in costs, for a total interim award of $46,906.18.