Alina Dennis v. HHS - Influenza, right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2026)

On September 28, 2023, Alina Dennis filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccination on October 1, 2020 caused a right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration. The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit but did not resolve by concession at first.

Respondent argued that Ms. Dennis could not satisfy several Table SIRVA elements, including onset within forty-eight hours, symptoms limited to the shoulder, and the absence of another condition explaining the symptoms.

Respondent pointed to later complaints of radiating arm pain, numbness in the hand, pain extending to the elbow, and a history of osteoarthritis. Chief Special Master Brian H.

Corcoran reviewed the record on petitioner's motion for a ruling on the record. On December 1, 2025, Chief Special Master Corcoran found that the evidence more likely than not established shoulder pain beginning within forty-eight hours of vaccination, pain and reduced range of motion limited to the right shoulder, no pre-vaccination condition explaining the post-vaccination symptoms, and satisfaction of the remaining Table SIRVA requirements.

Damages were later resolved by proffer, and on February 12, 2026, Ms. Dennis was awarded a lump sum of $70,000.00 for pain and suffering.