Melinda Boards v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2025)

Melinda Boards filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered a Table injury, specifically shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA), as a result of an influenza vaccination received on September 27, 2022. The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, reviewed the petition and medical records and conceded that Ms.

Boards was entitled to compensation. The respondent confirmed that her injury was consistent with SIRVA as defined by the Vaccine Injury Table, noting no prior history of shoulder issues, pain onset within 48 hours of vaccination, and that the pain and reduced range of motion were limited to the injection site.

The respondent also confirmed that the residual effects of her condition lasted for more than six months. Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master issued a ruling on entitlement, finding Ms.

Boards entitled to compensation. Subsequently, the parties reached a stipulation for damages.

The respondent proffered an award of $70,000.00 for pain and suffering and $5,408.21 to satisfy a Commonwealth of Kentucky Medicaid lien. Ms.

Boards agreed to this award. The decision awarding damages was issued on May 1, 2025, granting a total of $75,408.21 in compensation.