Court Finds GBS Triggered by Pneumonia Vaccine and Awards Compensation for Substantial Injuries and Death

 Posted on April 30, 2026 in Vaccine Injuries

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is a neurologic syndrome in which a person’s immune system attacks their own nerves. Symptoms can include weakness, numbness, and an ascending paralysis. GBS is a serious condition and medical intervention is vital. While the trigger for GBS is not entirely known, there has been an association with vaccination, particularly the seasonal flu vaccination. With this association established, GBS is listed on the Vaccine Injury Table, meaning that if a person establishes that they developed GBS within a specified period of time following a flu shot, they should be entitled to compensation.

While the link between seasonal flu vaccines and GBS is acknowledged in the NVICP, there have also been many cases brought by petitioners who developed GBS following other vaccinations. These cases have met with mixed results.

However, in late 2025, we were able to secure compensation in an extremely difficult case involving GBS following a pneumonia (Prevnar) vaccination. In our case, the Court found that the patient suffered from vaccination related GBS based on a medical theory presented by our experts, including a neuro-immunologist. The patient suffered a severe course, requiring inpatient treatment and ventilation, followed by a stay in a rehabilitation facility. Post-hospitalization, the patient struggled with significant mobility issues and ultimately suffered from overwhelming depression, which led to his death. We represented a family member who brought a case on behalf of the estate.

While the Secretary of Health & Human Services argued against a finding that the vaccination caused/contributed to the patient’s GBS and demise, the Court found that our experts had provided a solid theory to explain how and why the pneumonia vaccine was the likely cause of the patient’s illness and death. The Court also took note of how GBS, a neurological illness, can impact a person’s emotional state. This reinforces that pain and suffering is not just about the physical impact of a vaccine-related illness.

This case (No.19-1404V) required careful management by lead attorney, Ed Kraus, to develop the evidence, engage with the appropriate experts, and advocate for the application of the law to the facts and science involved. After the Court found our client entitled to compensation on behalf of the estate, the Court awarded damages totaling $500,000 (including the maximum pain and suffering allowed under the statute, in addition to the statutory death benefit).

The attorneys at Kraus Law Group have been practicing in the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (NVICP) for almost 20 years.  Whether the case involves more straightforward facts or requires the nuanced advocacy of attorneys who practice only in the NVICP, our firm has the experience and knowledge to expertly guide the case to the best possible outcome.