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May 18, 2026
Many vaccines, especially for young children, are required to be administered at a childcare center or school. These vaccines and the manner in which they are administered can cause long-lasting injuries and/or complications. When these injuries occur, the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) offers a chance for individuals to be compensated for the harm that’s been done. You should consult an attorney who understands VICP table injuries.
The Vaccine Injured Petitioners Bar Association assists victims of vaccine injuries and the capable lawyers who understand VICP table injuries. We’ve been working for justice since 2010, allowing families to heal from the trauma and pain of a vaccine injury. These cases can be complex and involve extensive documentation, including medical records and interviews. Don’t face this alone. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can make all the difference.
Benefits of Membership
Join a network of experienced vaccine injury attorneys dedicated to collaboration and mentorship. Gain access to CLEs, national conferences, and a growing library of pleadings, motions, and case law. Support your clients with confidence—backed by the resources of the VIP Bar Association.
Vaccine Injury Claims
Vaccines can save millions of lives, but they can also cause injuries. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) reported that from 2006 to 2022, there were more than 5 billion vaccines administered across the United States. Of those vaccinated in that timeframe, 11,421 filed petitions to the VICP due to injuries sustained during the vaccination. There were 8,182 petitioners compensated for those injuries.
In the history of the VICP, which started in 1986, over $5 billion has been awarded to those who have been injured by vaccines. These settlements are funded through federal taxes.
Vaccine Injury Laws
The National Childhood Vaccine Injury Act established the VICP as a no-fault system to approach vaccine injuries without going through the tort legal process. It also allows for faster compensation to allow the families to move on more quickly. During the drafting of the act, the Vaccine Injury Table was developed to help potential petitioners understand which vaccines and conditions are covered and can be compensated for after filing a claim.
VICP Table Injuries
The Vaccine Injury Table is essential when you want to file a claim with the VICP for compensation. To have a valid case, you must have proof that the vaccine caused the injury. Included in the table is a specific timeline for each vaccine. The injury or condition must be present during the time period for you to have a case. The vaccines included in the table are:
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, also known as DTaP, DTD, DT, TD, or TT
- Chickenpox or Varicella
- Hepatitis A or B
- Influenza
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella, also known as MMR
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
- Haemophilus Influenzae Type B, also known as Hib
- Pneumococcal
- Polio
- Rotavirus
Some of the conditions that can be related to these vaccines are:
- Anaphylaxis. This is when the airway narrows and blood pressure drops. These symptoms are typically seen with an allergic reaction and need to be addressed immediately. Call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.
- Brachial Neuritis. It causes severe shoulder and arm pain, which leads to weakness and numbness.
- Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA). This can be the result of improper administration of the injection.
- Vasovagal Syncope. Commonly known as fainting, this can be triggered by anxiety from the needle or any medical intervention.
- Encephalopathy. These conditions are general terms for issues with the brain, like memory loss or confusion.
- Encephalitis. This is an inflammation of the brain that can lead to neural damage.
- Chronic Arthritis. Arthritis affects the joints, causing pain and stiffness.
- Thrombocytopenic Purpura. The immune system can kill platelets, which can result in a bleeding disorder.
- Vaccine-strain Viral Disease. Some illnesses can be brought on by the vaccine. For example, someone can develop viral measles after receiving the MMR vaccine.
- Intussusception. This serious intestinal issue can cause obstruction, pain, vomiting, and blood flow issues in the bowel.
- Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Your peripheral nervous system can be affected, which can lead to fatigue, tingling, numbness, and weakness.
There may be other conditions that are covered under the VICP. Hire a vaccine injury lawyer to discuss what happened to you or someone you love.
FAQs
Can I File a Claim if I Have SIRVA?
Yes, Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration is listed several times on the Vaccine Injury Table. It can happen when the injection is done too high or too deep in the deltoid muscle. This can cause inflammation and a limited range of motion. You may need further testing to determine if there’s been more damage, like a rotator cuff tear. After six months of pain and limited mobility, you can file a compensation claim.
What Is the Average Payout for the VICP?
The compensation for a vaccine injury can vary based on the condition linked to the vaccine. For something more severe, the amount could be higher. Some conditions listed on the table are lifelong issues that require more care, especially if the victim is a child who may have decades of medical bills. According to the HRSA, almost $42 million was paid to 361 petitioners who got a settlement during the 2024 fiscal year.
What Vaccines Are Not Included on the Vaccine Injury Table?
There are a few vaccines that don’t appear on the table and aren’t covered by the VICP. COVID-19 vaccines are not covered, nor are vaccines for Herpes Zoster, also known as Shingles. After 9/11, several people received the Anthrax vaccine due to it being sent through the mail. Some members of the military have received it as well, but it doesn’t appear on the table.
What Are the Injuries Associated With the DTaP Vaccine?
The possible injuries associated with the DTaP vaccine are numerous; they can include Anaphylaxis, Brachial Neuritis, SIRVA, fainting, Encephalopathy, and Encephalitis. Some of these conditions can be very severe and require immediate medical attention. Make sure you keep documentation of any doctor or hospital visits. This evidence can help your vaccine injury claim.
Hire a Vaccine Injury Lawyer
At the Vaccine Injured Petitioners Bar Association, we pride ourselves on offering compassion to victims and continued education to attorneys. We understand the complex and sometimes heartbreaking injuries that occur with vaccines. When it comes to your vaccine injury claim, you want someone you can trust. Contact us today to find a knowledgeable vaccine injury attorney or to become a member of our mission-driven organization.