Bruce W. Blais, Jr. v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (2025)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
Bruce W. Blais, Jr. filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that he suffered Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) following an influenza vaccine administered on January 4, 2022.
The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a report conceding that Mr. Blais is entitled to compensation.
The respondent agreed that Mr. Blais satisfied the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table and the Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation, which afford a presumption of causation for GBS following a seasonal flu vaccination if onset occurs between three and forty-two days after vaccination and there is no apparent alternative cause.
Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence of record, the Chief Special Master found Mr. Blais entitled to compensation.
The parties agreed to an award of $191,179.92, representing $191,000.00 for pain and suffering and $179.92 for out-of-pocket medical and related expenses. This amount compensates for all damages available under Section 15(a) of the Vaccine Act.