Bruce A. Ling, Jr. v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) (2025)

On November 1, 2024, Bruce A. Ling, Jr., proceeding pro se, filed another petition seeking compensation for Guillain-Barre syndrome allegedly caused by an influenza vaccine he received in November 2011.

The public decision identifies him as an adult petitioner but does not state his exact age. Chief Special Master Corcoran explained that the claim was facially untimely because even a GBS onset one year after vaccination would have accrued more than twelve years earlier, far outside the Vaccine Act's three-year limitations period.

He also noted that Mr. Ling had repeatedly filed cases arising from the same alleged vaccine injury since 2014, and those prior matters had been denied or dismissed because he did not substantiate a vaccine injury or GBS diagnosis.

After an order to show cause, Mr. Ling argued that prior proceedings violated due process and that his own testimony and circumstantial evidence should suffice without a formal GBS diagnosis.

Respondent answered that the claim was untimely and unsupported by medical records, physician opinion, expert opinion, or other evidence substantiating GBS. On August 12, 2025, the Chief Special Master dismissed the claim and entered an anti-filing order requiring leave of court for any future petition.

The decision was reissued for public availability on December 5, 2025 after no redactions were proposed.