Marta Pike v. HHS - Influenza, peripheral neuropathy/small fiber neuropathy (2025)

Marta Pike filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program on September 30, 2025, alleging that she developed peripheral neuropathy/small fiber neuropathy caused by an influenza vaccination received on October 27, 2021. The decision addresses her motion for interim attorneys' fees and costs.

The court found that Ms. Pike has established a reasonable basis for her claim, noting an abrupt onset of symptoms one day after vaccination, hospitalization, and subsequent medical treatment and testing consistent with demyelinating polyneuropathy and small fiber neuropathy.

Although respondent raised objections regarding pre-existing conditions and alternative causes, the court determined that the evidence presented met the lower burden for establishing a reasonable basis for the claim. The court also found that an award of interim fees was warranted due to the withdrawal of prior counsel and the ongoing nature of the litigation.

The court awarded $22,092.99 in interim attorneys' fees and costs to be paid to her former counsel.