Steven Appleget v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (2025)

Steven Appleget filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on March 27, 2024. He alleged that he suffered Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) as a result of an influenza vaccine administered on November 10, 2021, and that he experienced residual symptoms for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report on March 31, 2025, conceding that Mr. Appleget is entitled to compensation.

The respondent stated that Mr. Appleget satisfied the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table and its Qualifications and Aids to Interpretation, which provide a presumption of causation if GBS onset 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, Chief Special Master Brian H. Corcoran found that Mr.

Appleget is entitled to compensation. The case is proceeding to determine the award amount.

Petitioner counsel was Diana Lynn Stadelnikas of Maglio Christopher & Toale, PA. Respondent counsel was Eleanor Hanson of the U.S.

Department of Justice. The decision date was April 30, 2025.