Flu Shot & Transverse Myelitis (TM) | Get the Right Lawyer

Flu Shot & Transverse Myelitis (TM) Lawsuit Overview

Transverse Myelitis (TM) is a neurological condition caused by inflammation of the spinal cord.

Recent lawsuits allege that certain flu vaccines can trigger this serious condition, resulting in weakness, sensory disturbances, bowel pain, and reduced coordination among affected individuals.

The lawsuits claim that vaccine manufacturers failed to adequately warn patients and healthcare providers about the potential risk of developing TM following vaccination.

As of 2024, several hundred cases have been reported nationwide with varying degrees of severity.

Latest Flu Shot Lawsuit Updates

• August 14, 2024 – The U.S. Court of Federal Claims approved a $2.3 million settlement for a 42-year-old patient who developed Transverse Myelitis three weeks after receiving the seasonal flu vaccine. The case established important precedent for future TM claims.
• June 30, 2024 – A new scientific study published in the Journal of Neuroimmunology found a statistically significant correlation between specific flu vaccine formulations and increased rates of demyelinating disorders, including TM and Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS).
• May 15, 2024 – The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (NVICP) added Transverse Myelitis to its Vaccine Injury Table for seasonal influenza vaccines, making it easier for injured parties to receive compensation without proving causation.
• March 3, 2024 – The FDA issued updated warning requirements for flu vaccine manufacturers, mandating clearer disclosure of potential neurological complications, including TM symptoms and GBS.
• January 22, 2024 – A multi-district litigation (MDL) was established in the Northern District of California to consolidate over 250 flu shot injury cases involving TM and similar neurological complications.

FDA Reports and Statistics

According to the FDA’s Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS), there have been 843 reported cases of Transverse Myelitis potentially associated with influenza vaccines between 2010 and 2023. These MAUDE database findings show:

• 62% of cases occurred within 21 days of vaccination
• 78% of affected individuals required hospitalization
• 36% reported long-term disability following diagnosis

The FDA has issued safety communications regarding the potential neurological complications of influenza vaccines but maintains that the benefits generally outweigh the risks for most patients.

Transverse Myelitis Injuries & Side Effects

Transverse Myelitis following flu vaccination can cause various symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort to severe disability requiring long-term care.

• Motor Function Problems: Muscle weakness, paralysis, spastic movements
• Sensory Disturbances: Numbness, tingling, burning sensations, pain
• Autonomic Dysfunction: Bowel and bladder problems, temperature regulation issues
• Pain Syndromes: Severe back pain, radicular pain, neuropathic pain
• Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS): In some cases, TM may present alongside GBS symptoms

Also Read: Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CPRS)

Do You Qualify for a Flu Shot Lawsuit?

You may qualify for a flu shot injury case if:

• You received a seasonal influenza vaccine within the last three years
• You developed Transverse Myelitis symptoms within 2-30 days after vaccination
• You were diagnosed with TM or a similar demyelinating disorder by a neurologist
• Your medical records document the timeline between vaccination and symptom onset
• You have continued to experience effects from the TM diagnosis

Evidence Required for a Flu Shot Lawsuit

Building a successful flu shot injury case requires specific documentation, including:

• Complete vaccination records showing date, location, and vaccine lot number
• Medical records documenting the onset, diagnosis, and treatment of TM
• Neurologist reports confirming the diagnosis and ruling out other causes
• MRI results showing spinal cord inflammation consistent with TM
• Documentation of ongoing medical care and related expenses

Damages You Can Recover

Victims of flu shot-related Transverse Myelitis may be entitled to compensation for:

• Past and future medical expenses, including rehabilitation costs
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering, including physical and emotional distress
• Permanent disability and loss of quality of life
• Caregiver expenses for those requiring ongoing assistance

Related Articles:

• Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy Syndrome
• Pudendal Neuralgia Lawsuit
• Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome

Flu Shot Recall Information

As of 2024, there have been no complete recalls of seasonal flu vaccines specifically due to Transverse Myelitis risks. However, several important safety actions have occurred:

• October 2023 – Three lots of FluMist Quadrivalent nasal spray were recalled due to potential contamination that could increase neurological complication risks
• February 2023 – The FDA requested stronger label warnings on Fluzone High-Dose regarding neurological risk factors
• September 2022 – One lot of Flucelvax Quadrivalent was withdrawn from the market after cluster reports of adverse neurological events

The CDC and FDA continue to monitor flu vaccine safety through various surveillance systems, including the Vaccine Safety Datalink and VAERS database.

Statute of Limitations for Flu Shot Lawsuits

Time limits for filing a flu shot injury lawsuit vary based on how you pursue your claim:

• National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP): Claims must be filed within 3 years of the first symptom or manifestation of injury
• Civil Lawsuits Against Manufacturers: Typically 2-3 years from injury discovery, varying by state
• California: 2 years from date of injury
• New York: 3 years from date of injury
• Texas: 2 years from date of injury
• Florida: 4 years from date of injury

Failing to file within these timeframes may permanently bar you from seeking compensation for your injuries.

See all related dangerous drug lawsuits our attorneys covered so far.

FAQs

1. Can a Flu Shot Cause Transverse Myelitis (TM)?

Yes, though rare, medical literature documents cases where seasonal flu vaccines triggered TM. The autoimmune reaction affects the spinal cord, causing inflammation and neurological symptoms typically appearing within 2-21 days after vaccination.

2. What Are the Symptoms of Transverse Myelitis After a Flu Shot?

TM symptoms include muscle weakness, sensory abnormalities, pain, bladder/bowel dysfunction, and paralysis in severe cases. The inflammation typically begins with back pain followed by rapidly progressing neurological deficits within hours or days.

3. Can I File a Lawsuit If I Developed Transverse Myelitis After a Flu Shot?

Yes, individuals diagnosed with TM following flu vaccination can pursue compensation through the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program or traditional lawsuits if NVICP doesn’t provide adequate compensation for extensive damages.

4. What Compensation Is Available for Flu Shot-Induced Transverse Myelitis?

Compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and disability accommodations. The NVICP has awarded settlements ranging from $250,000 to over $2 million depending on injury severity and life impact.

5. How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for Flu Shot Complications?

For NVICP claims, you must file within 3 years of symptom onset. For civil lawsuits against manufacturers or administrators, state statutes typically allow 2-4 years, varying by jurisdiction.

6. What Is the Difference Between Transverse Myelitis and GBS?

While both are neurological disorders potentially triggered by vaccines, TM specifically affects the spinal cord, while Guillian-Barre Syndrome affects peripheral nerves. TM symptoms concentrate on specific body segments while GBS typically spreads upward.

7. How Common Are Neurological Complications After Flu Vaccination?

Serious neurological complications like TM and GBS occur in approximately 1-2 cases per million flu vaccinations. Despite their rarity, these conditions can cause severe, life-altering disabilities requiring extensive medical intervention.

8. Who Is Most at Risk for Developing TM After Vaccination?

Individuals with autoimmune disorders, prior neurological conditions, or specific genetic factors face higher risks. Research suggests people with history of adverse reactions to vaccines may have predispositions to inflammatory responses.

Get A Free Flu Shot & Transverse Myelitis (TM) Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

Time is limited to pursue legal action for flu shot-related Transverse Myelitis. With only 3 years from the onset of symptoms to file with the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program, you must act quickly to protect your legal rights.

Our specialized vaccine injury attorneys offer:

• Free, confidential consultations to evaluate your case
• No upfront costs or fees for representation
• Payment only if we win your case or secure a settlement
• Comprehensive assistance with NVICP claims and civil litigation

Our experienced legal team understands the complexities of vaccine injury claims, including TM symptoms and Guillian-Barre Syndrome (GBS) cases. We have successfully represented numerous clients in flu shot injury cases nationwide.