Every so often, the U.S. Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA) makes changes to the Vaccine Injury Table. The HRSA has made a couple of major changes in recent years, adding Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) resulting from flu shots and shoulder injuries related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) resulting from most of the “on-table” vaccines.
Recently, the HRSA announced that it is preparing to adopt another significant revision. Once the new regulation is passed, all vaccines recommended for pregnant women will be added to the Vaccine Injury Table. While the regulation is subject to public comment as required by federal law, as noted on the HRSA’s website, the purposes of the public hearing on the proposed change are limited:
“As required by a recent amendment to the VICP’s authorizing statute, the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (Secretary) proposes to amend the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) Vaccine Injury Table to include vaccines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for routine administration in pregnant women.
“Thus, the Secretary only seeks public comment on how the addition of this new category is proposed to be formatted on the Table.”
Which Vaccines Will Be Covered?
As proposed, the revised Vaccine Injury Table would cover, “[a]ny new vaccine recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for routine administration to children and/or pregnant women.” The Vaccine Injury Table already covers certain injuries resulting from vaccinations for pertussis (whooping cough), the flu and hepatitis B (the CDC’s current primary vaccine recommendations during pregnancy), so the revised language would cover any additional vaccines that may be recommended in the future.
Which Vaccine Injuries Will Be Covered?
For newly-recommended vaccines, the Vaccine Injury Table will automatically cover vasovagal syncope and shoulder injuries related to vaccine administration (SIRVA). It is possible that the HRSA would add specific injuries for newly-approved vaccines as well. Also, as we have previously discussed, a vaccine injury does not need to be listed in order to be eligible for compensation under the VICP.
What Should Women Do if They Experience a Vaccine Injury During Pregnancy?
Anyone who experiences shoulder pain or any other symptom following a vaccination should see their doctor promptly. Due to the potential for substantial medical bills, loss of income, and pain and suffering, anyone diagnosed with a vaccine-related injury or illness should consult with an attorney as well.
Nationwide Legal Representation for Individuals Diagnosed with Vaccine Injuries
Leah V. Durant is an experienced vaccine lawyer who represents individuals in National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) claims nationwide. If you have been diagnosed with a vaccine-related injury or illness, call the Law Offices of Leah V. Durant & Associates at (202) 775-9200 or request a free initial consultation online today.