Can the Flu Shot Cause Optic Neuritis?

Optic neuritis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the optic nerve. This inflammation can cause pain and vision loss; and, as explained by Johns Hopkins Medicine, “[l]oss of vision in optic neuritis commonly reaches its maximum effect within a few days and starts improving within 4 to 12 weeks.”

While the precise cause of optic neuritis is unknown, it has been linked to various factors. One of these factors is an adverse reaction to the annual flu shot. The flu shot is known to cause certain other nerve disorders for a small percentage of recipients as well, and approximately half of all successful claims filed under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) involve flu shot-related illnesses and injuries.

Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC Secures $200,000 Settlement for Flu Shot Recipient Diagnosed with Optic Neuritis

Recently, vaccine attorney Leah V. Durant represented an individual who was diagnosed with optic neuritis following an influenza immunization. The individual received an annual flu shot on February 3, 2017, and our firm filed a claim under the VICP on her behalf on February 8, 2018. Following settlement negotiations with the attorneys from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ)—the DOJ represents the government in all VICP claims—the individual accepted a settlement offer in the amount of $200,000 on April 21, 2020. The U.S. Court of Federal Claims (also known as the “Vaccine Court”) approved the settlement on April 22, 2020.

Are You Experiencing Symptoms of Optic Neuritis Following a Flu Shot?

Optic neuritis can have a variety of different symptoms, and these symptoms may onset progressively prior to improving. Many people fully recover; and, as Johns Hopkins Medicine explains, “[j]ust because you have severe symptoms doesn’t necessarily mean that optic neuritis will never go away.” Symptoms of optic neuritis include:

• Blurred vision
• Loss of vision in one eye
• Limited ability to distinguish colors
• Pain in the eye, which may worsen with movement
• Partial vision loss

For individuals who are experiencing these symptoms following a flu shot, it is important to see a doctor promptly. It is also important to consult with a vaccine attorney to find out if you may be entitled to a monetary recovery under the VICP. Regardless of the severity of the symptoms of optic neuritis, treatment can be expensive; and, in addition to providing coverage for claimants’ medical expenses, the VICP provides compensation for claimants’ lost of income and pain and suffering as well.

For more information about filing a claim under the VICP, you can read:

• FAQs: What are My Rights After a Vaccine Injury?
• HRSA, SIRVA, VICP? Making Sense of Your Vaccine Injury Claim

• How to Obtain Compensation Under VICP When Your Injury Is Not Listed on the Vaccine Injury Table

Discuss Your VICP Claim with Vaccine Attorney Leah V. Durant

If you have been diagnosed with optic neuritis following a flu shot and would like to learn more about filing a claim under the VICP, we encourage you to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. To speak with vaccine attorney Leah V. Durant over the phone at a time that is convenient for you, call us at 202-800-1711 or request an appointment online today.

Leah Durant Bio

Experienced litigation attorney Leah Durant focuses on representing clients in complex vaccine litigation matters. Leah Durant is the owner and principal attorney of the Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC, a litigation firm based in Washington, DC. Leah Durant and her staff represent clients and their families who suffer from vaccine-related injuries, adverse vaccine reactions and vaccine-related deaths. The Law Offices of Leah V. Durant, PLLC is dedicated to assisting individuals in recovering the highest level of compensation as quickly and efficiently as possible. To learn more, contact vaccine attorney Leah Durant today.