Influenza Vaccine and GBS

There is a higher incidence of Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) among those who get the flu vaccine and those who do not.  This higher incidence of GBS is recognized by the U.S. Government’s Department of Health and Human Services (Dep’t HHS).   Here at Whitfield Sharp & Hitchcock, LLC, we have successfully settled many GBS cases caused by the flu vaccine.  Call us at 781.639.1862, if you or someone you know is injured by a flu vaccine (or any vaccine) for that matter.

Guillain-Barre Syndrome has symptoms that generally start as muscle weakness, joint aches and/or tingling in the extremites (arms and/or legs).  The symptoms spread quickly over days and become severe.  The spread of weakness can travel to the lungs and cause difficulty in breathing.  Breathing can become so difficult that the victim has to be placed on a respirator to assist with the breathing process.  Guillain-Barre Syndrome is most often considered a medical emergency.

Many people who contract GBS suffer the symptoms mildly, but in some cases the symptoms can become life-threatening.