VACCINE INJURIES
The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) was created by our U.S. Congress in 1986 as a no-fault alternative to the traditional tort system for vaccine injuries. It provides compensation to people found to be injured by certain vaccines. Persons with vaccine related injuries or deaths resulting from covered vaccines must first pursue their claims through the VICP. VICP claims are filed in the U.S Court of Federal Claims located in Washington, D.C. The claims are asserted against the Secretary of the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS). HHS is represented by attorneys with the Department of Justice. Only attorneys licensed in the U.S. Court of Federal Claims are permitted to file VICP claims.
WHAT VACCINES ARE COVERED?
WHAT TYPES OF INJURIES CAN BE CAUSED BY VACCINES?
- SIRVA (Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration): significant shoulder pain and severely decreased ability to move your shoulder after receiving a vaccine in the upper arm. Symptoms usually show up in less than 48 hours. This condition can be permanent.
- GBS (Guillain-Barre Syndrome): your body’s immune system attacks your nerves. Weakness and tingling in your hands and feet are usually the first symptoms. The sensations can quickly spread, eventually paralyzing your whole body.
- Anaphylaxis: a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that usually happens less than 4 hours after receiving a vaccine. Think of a severe peanut or bee sting allergy. This condition is an emergency and can lead to death.
- Vasovagal syncope (fainting): your heart rate and blood pressure drop suddenly, leading to reduced blood flow to your brain, causing unconsciousness. The main concern is injuring yourself when you faint and fall down. Head injuries are common.
- Brain or nerve injuries, seizures, sudden bowel obstructions, or other injuries.
There are very few lawyers in South Texas that are licensed in the U.S. Federal Court of Claims and have the expertise to handle vaccine claims in the VICP. Tyler Scheuerman has successfully handled vaccine claims and secured VICP awards for victims of vaccine injuries. If you or someone you care about has suffered an injury after receiving a vaccination, you need to act quickly and contact an attorney. The VICP is very specific on what information must be proved to support a vaccine injury award. Many victims of vaccine injuries delay seeking medical attention and legal counsel, resulting in unnecessary difficulties in pursuing a claim in the VICP. Contact Scheuerman Law Firm, PLLC today!