Although vaccine related injuries are rare – they do happen. A common condition known as Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration, or SIRVA, is the most common of all vaccine-related injuries. It often occurs following an improper administration of a vaccination, such as the flu shot.

SIRVA typically occurs when a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist incorrectly places the needle too high up on the arm when administering a vaccine. Although it is normal to have shoulder pain and soreness following the administration of a vaccine, generally these symptoms go away without medical attention within a few days. However, SIRVA sufferers typically experience continued shoulder pain with varying degrees of severity for a prolonged time.

Individuals suffering from SIRVA may experience symptoms such as sharp or stabbing shoulder pain, soreness, weakness, aching, stiffness, tenderness, swelling, numbness, tingling and limited range of motion. These symptoms can last months or even years.

Congress enacted the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (NVICP) in 1986 to provide compensation to individuals suffering from vaccine related injuries, including shoulder injuries. The Federal vaccine program is funded by the placement of an excise tax of $.75 on each illness that is prevented by the vaccination that is administered in the United States and those monies are placed into the Vaccine Trust Fund. A person suffering from a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration may be entitled to compensation for their pain and suffering, lost income, and out-of-pocket medical expenses.

If you or a loved one suffered a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration, contact a lawyer licensed to practice before the United States Court of Federal Claims. The attorneys at Zgheib Sayad, P.C. are licensed to practice before the United States Court of Federal Claims. For more information, please schedule a free consultation by calling (888) 276-2027 or filling out a contact form and a vaccine injury attorney will contact you.