Heather Rish v. HHS - Influenza, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2026)

Heather Rish filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, alleging she suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) following an influenza vaccination on November 27, 2023. She further alleged that she continued to suffer residual effects for more than six months.

The respondent conceded that Ms. Rish is entitled to compensation, stating that she had no prior history of shoulder pain or dysfunction, that her pain occurred within forty-eight hours after the vaccination, and that the pain and reduced range of motion were limited to the side of the vaccination.

The respondent agreed that Ms. Rish satisfied all requirements for compensation under the Act.

Based on the respondent's concession and the evidence, the Chief Special Master found that Ms. Rish is entitled to compensation.

The case was resolved on entitlement, with damages to be determined.