Carla Thomas v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2024)

Carla Thomas filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) after receiving an influenza vaccination on September 27, 2021. She further alleged that the injury caused residual effects lasting more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Petitioner's injury was consistent with SIRVA as defined by the Vaccine Injury Table and that she had satisfied all legal prerequisites for compensation. A Ruling on Entitlement was subsequently issued, finding Petitioner entitled to compensation.

Following this, the respondent filed a Proffer on award of compensation, recommending an award of $73,500.00 for pain and suffering and $183.88 for past unreimbursable expenses, which Petitioner agreed to. The Chief Special Master awarded Carla Thomas a total lump sum payment of $73,683.88 for pain and suffering and past unreimbursable expenses.