Lynda Speer v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (2026)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On August 31, 2023, Lynda Speer filed a petition alleging that she developed Guillain-Barre syndrome after receiving an influenza vaccine on September 3, 2020. Respondent initially maintained that Ms.
Speer had not met her burden of proof. On January 21, 2026, respondent filed an amended Rule 4(c) report advising that he would not continue to defend entitlement in light of the record, including the expert report of Dr.
Simpson. The short public ruling does not describe the first neurologic symptom, hospitalization, lumbar puncture or nerve testing, IVIG, rehabilitation, or residual limitations.
Special Master Nora Beth Dorsey found Ms. Speer entitled to compensation on January 22, 2026.
Damages remained pending.
Theory of causation
Influenza vaccine September 3, 2020 allegedly causing GBS; adult, exact age not stated. ENTITLEMENT GRANTED; damages pending. Respondent initially contested but amended Rule 4(c) to stop defending entitlement after record review including Dr. Simpson's expert report; public ruling lacks clinical details. SM Nora Beth Dorsey; petition August 31, 2023; decision January 22, 2026.
Source PDFs
USCOURTS-cofc-1_23-vv-01511