Michaela Strickland v. HHS - Tdap, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2025)

Michaela Strickland filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging that she developed left arm pain and disability due to a tetanus diphtheria acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine she received on August 11, 2021. She asserted an injury under section I(C) of the Vaccine Injury Table, which pertains to shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA).

The respondent conceded that Petitioner is entitled to compensation, agreeing that her injury was consistent with SIRVA. Specifically, the respondent noted that she had no prior history of shoulder issues, the pain occurred within 48 hours of vaccination, and the pain and reduced range of motion were limited to the injection site, with no other condition identified to explain the symptoms.

The respondent also agreed that Petitioner had suffered residual effects for more than six months and met all legal prerequisites for compensation. Following the ruling on entitlement, the parties stipulated to an award.

The decision awarding damages granted Michaela Strickland a lump sum payment of $40,000.00 for pain and suffering, to be paid through her counsel.