Nicole O’Donnell v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre Syndrome (2025)

Nicole O’Donnell filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she suffered from Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) following an influenza vaccination she received on November 14, 2022. She further alleged that she has suffered the residual effects of her injury for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Ms. O’Donnell is entitled to compensation.

The respondent stated that Ms. O’Donnell satisfied the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table and the Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation, which afford her a presumption of causation if the onset of GBS occurs between three and forty-two days after a seasonal flu vaccination and there is no apparent alternative cause.

Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence of record, the Chief Special Master found that Ms. O’Donnell is entitled to compensation.

The case is proceeding to determine the award of damages.