Nicole Rapson v. HHS - Influenza, right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2025)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On August 16, 2024, Nicole Rapson filed a petition alleging that an influenza vaccination administered on October 28, 2023 caused a right shoulder injury related to vaccine administration. She alleged residual effects lasting more than six months.
Respondent conceded entitlement in a Rule 4(c) report filed February 12, 2025. The concession stated that Ms.
Rapson had no prior right-shoulder pain, inflammation, or dysfunction; that pain occurred within forty-eight hours of vaccination; that pain and reduced range of motion were limited to the vaccinated shoulder; and that no other condition was identified to explain her shoulder pain. Chief Special Master Corcoran granted entitlement on February 14, 2025.
The public text does not provide a detailed clinical chronology, imaging results, injections, therapy, or daily-life effects. Damages were resolved by proffer.
On May 7, 2025, the Chief Special Master awarded $53,561.23 as a lump sum through counsel, consisting of $50,000.00 for pain and suffering and $3,561.23 for unreimbursed expenses. A later fee decision was separate from the vaccine-injury award.
Theory of causation
Adult petitioner; influenza vaccine October 28, 2023; right Table SIRVA. COMPENSATED. Respondent conceded no prior right shoulder dysfunction, pain within 48 hours, symptoms limited to the vaccinated shoulder, no alternative condition, and residual effects over six months. Public text lacks detailed medical chronology. Entitlement February 14, 2025; damages May 7, 2025. Award $53,561.23 = $50,000.00 pain/suffering + $3,561.23 unreimbursed expenses. Petition filed August 16, 2024.
Source PDFs
USCOURTS-cofc-1_24-vv-01263