Madeleine King Peterson v. HHS - Tdap, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2025)

Madeleine King Peterson filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program alleging she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) resulting from a tetanus diphtheria acellular pertussis (Tdap) vaccine received on February 13, 2023. The petition stated that the injury symptoms persisted for more than six months.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that the petitioner was entitled to compensation. The respondent agreed that the injury was consistent with SIRVA as defined by the Vaccine Injury Table, noting that the petitioner had no prior shoulder issues, the pain occurred within 48 hours of vaccination, and the pain and reduced range of motion were limited to the injection site.

The respondent further confirmed that the petitioner satisfied all legal prerequisites for compensation. Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master issued a ruling on entitlement.

Subsequently, the respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, recommending an award of $47,500.00 for pain and suffering, which the petitioner agreed to. The court awarded Madeleine King Peterson a lump sum payment of $47,500.00 for pain and suffering.