Karen Salberg v. HHS - Influenza, left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2026)

Karen Salberg filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered a left shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) caused by an influenza vaccine administered on October 31, 2022. She had no prior history of shoulder pain.

Within a week of the vaccination, she began experiencing shoulder pain, which she consistently linked to the flu shot. Medical records documented her complaints of left shoulder pain and limited range of motion, and an MRI showed a tear suggestive of adhesive capsulitis.

The Special Master found that Petitioner met the requirements for a Table SIRVA, including no prior shoulder condition, onset of pain within 48 hours of vaccination (though reported on November 8, 2022, the court found sufficient evidence of onset near the vaccination date), pain limited to the vaccinated shoulder, and no other condition explaining the symptoms. The court also found that Petitioner met the severity requirement of suffering residual effects for more than six months and satisfied all other requirements for compensation.

Therefore, the Special Master ruled that Karen Salberg is entitled to compensation.