ANAPHYLAXIS AFTER VACCINE

A severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis can be fatal. Food, insect stings, drugs, and latex are the allergens that most frequently result in anaphylaxis. The risk of anaphylaxis is also present in almost every vaccine. If you or a loved one experienced anaphylaxis after receiving a vaccine, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. It’s also important to speak with a vaccine injury attorney as soon as you can because you may be entitled to compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.

What is Anaphylaxis?

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be fatal if not treated quickly. It occurs within minutes, or seconds, after being exposed to an allergen, like peanuts, bee stings, and/or certain vaccines.

The immune system releases an abundance of chemicals as a result of anaphylaxis, which can result in shock, a sharp drop in blood pressure, and narrowing of the airway. A skin rash, a quick, weak pulse, nausea, and vomiting are all warning signs and symptoms.

Anaphylaxis requires immediate medical attention. If it isn’t treated promptly, it can be fatal.

Causes of Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is more likely to occur in people with allergies, asthma, or a family history of the condition. A higher risk of another anaphylactic reaction exists in those who have already experienced it before.

Foods, antibiotics, insect stings, and latex are typical anaphylactic triggers for children and adults.

Almost every vaccine carries the risk of causing anaphylaxis in kids and adults. Many people experience anaphylaxis after receiving a DTaP or MMR vaccine.

Can you be allergic to a vaccine?

Yes, it is possible for people to experience anaphylaxis as a result of receiving a vaccine.

Anaphylactic symptoms usually begin to appear within minutes of receiving the vaccine but can also begin up to four hours after vaccination. Due to the potential health risks associated with anaphylaxis, it is important to obtain immediate medical attention if you begin experiencing symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis symptoms and signs might differ from person to person and alter over time. Some people may only have a few symptoms, while others might have numerous.

The following are some of the most common symptoms of anaphylaxis:

• Hives

• Tongue and/or throat swelling

• Breathing difficulty

• Hoarseness

• Spasms

• Abdominal pain

• Confusion

• Dizziness

• Fainting

• Vomiting

• Seizure

• Loss of consciousness

Can I Receive Compensation for Vaccine-Related Anaphylaxis?

To receive compensation for vaccine-related anaphylaxis, you must file a petition under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. The NVICP is a federal program that was created to compensate people who have been injured by certain vaccines. If you or a loved one have been injured by a vaccine, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries.

Anaphylaxis is listed on the Vaccine Injury Table under almost all routine vaccines. It is an “on table” injury, meaning that it occurs frequently enough after vaccination that, when filing a petition, the Court will assume the vaccine caused the anaphylaxis. “On table” injuries are processed relatively quickly and frequently result in compensation.

There are specific rules that must be followed when submitting a claim. An experienced vaccine attorney can help you navigate the process and help ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

How Much Does it Cost to File a Vaccine Claim?

One of the great benefits of the VICP is that it covers attorneys’ fees and expenses! You can file a claim with the VICP at no cost to you.

How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After Receiving a Vaccine?

Just like many other areas of law, vaccine injury claims have a statute of limitations.

For cases where the petitioner did not die, the statute of limitations is 3 years from the first onset of symptoms. At DuPont & Blumenstiel, we like to play it safe and base our cases on the date of vaccination. For cases where the petitioner did die, the statute of limitations is 24 months from the date of death but not more than 4 years from the date of vaccination.

It's important to keep these dates in mind so you don't miss them! If you believe you've suffered an adverse reaction to a vaccine, the time to act is now.

How Much Compensation Can I Receive Through the NVICP?

The amount of compensation you can receive is dependent on your situation, the severity of your symptoms, and how long they lasted. With some exceptions, there typically is no set compensation amount for specific vaccine injuries. However, depending on the severity of your vaccine-related injuries and damages, the compensation you receive can be substantial. You can receive compensation for past and future lost wages, past and future unreimbursed medical expenses, and past and future pain and suffering.

Receiving compensation through the NVICP is complex, which is why it’s important to consult with a vaccine injury lawyer. An experienced vaccine attorney will be able to help you better understand your options.

Hiring a Vaccine Injury Attorney

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with anaphylaxis after receiving a vaccine, you could be eligible for compensation under the NVICP. Our knowledgeable vaccine injury attorneys can help you through the process and will fully fight for your claim. Call us today at 614-389-9711 for a case evaluation.

Want to learn more about the NVICP? Download our Consumer's Guide to Vaccine-Related Injuries here.