Pneumovax 23 is a vaccine that protects against 23 types of pneumococcal bacteria, which can cause pneumonia and other serious infections. It is recommended for all adults over the age of 65 and for certain other people with weakened immune systems.
In recent years, there have been a number of lawsuits filed against the manufacturer of Pneumovax 23, Merck & Co., alleging that the vaccine can cause serious side effects, including a shoulder injury known as shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA).
SIRVA is a painful condition that can cause difficulty moving the shoulder and arm. It is thought to be caused by inflammation of the tendons and other tissues in the shoulder.
While SIRVA is a rare side effect of Pneumovax 23, it can be very debilitating. In some cases, it can lead to permanent disability.
Who Can File a Pneumovax 23 Lawsuit?
If you have developed SIRVA after receiving the Pneumovax 23 vaccine, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against Merck.
To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have received the Pneumovax 23 vaccine.
- You must have developed SIRVA within 6 months of receiving the vaccine.
- Your SIRVA must be severe enough to require medical treatment.
How to File a Pneumovax 23 Lawsuit
If you believe that you are eligible to file a Pneumovax 23 lawsuit, you should contact an experienced vaccine injury lawyer. Your lawyer will be able to review your case and advise you on your legal options.
If you decide to file a lawsuit, your lawyer will help you to prepare and file your case with the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). The VICP is a federal program that provides compensation to people who have been injured by vaccines.
What to Expect in a Pneumovax 23 Lawsuit
If you file a Pneumovax 23 lawsuit, you can expect the following process:
- Your lawyer will file a petition with the VICP.
- The VICP will review your petition and decide whether to accept it.
- If your petition is accepted, you will be assigned a special master, who will be responsible for investigating your case.
- The special master will hold a hearing to hear evidence from both you and Merck.
- After the hearing, the special master will make a recommendation to the VICP about whether or not you should be compensated.
- The VICP will review the special master’s recommendation and make a final decision about your case.
If You Win Your Pneumovax 23 Lawsuit
If you win your Pneumovax 23 lawsuit, you may be awarded compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the severity of your injuries.
Conclusion
If you have developed SIRVA after receiving the Pneumovax 23 vaccine, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit against Merck. Contact an experienced vaccine injury lawyer to discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.
FAQs
Q: What is the success rate of Pneumovax 23 lawsuits?
A: The success rate of Pneumovax 23 lawsuits varies depending on the specific facts of each case. However, in general, vaccine injury cases are very difficult to win.
Q: How long does it take to resolve a Pneumovax 23 lawsuit?
A: The length of time it takes to resolve a Pneumovax 23 lawsuit can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the VICP. However, it is generally expected that these cases will take several years to resolve.
Q: What are the potential costs of filing a Pneumovax 23 lawsuit?
A: There are no upfront costs associated with filing a Pneumovax 23 lawsuit. Your lawyer will only be paid if you win your case.
Q: What are the benefits of filing a Pneumovax 23 lawsuit?
A: If you win your Pneumovax 23 lawsuit, you may be awarded compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This compensation can help you to pay for the costs of your injuries and to improve your quality of life.
Q: What are the risks of filing a Pneumovax 23 lawsuit?
A: The biggest risk of filing a Pneumovax 23 lawsuit is that you may lose your case. If you lose your case, you will not be awarded any compensation. Additionally, you may be responsible for paying your lawyer’s fees.
Q: What are the most common side effects of Pneumovax 23?
A: The most common side effects of Pneumovax 23 are mild and go away on their own within a few days. These side effects may include:
- Pain, redness, swelling, and hardening at the injection site
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Fatigue
- Chills
Q: What are the serious side effects of Pneumovax 23?
A: The serious side effects of Pneumovax 23 are very rare. However, they can include:
- Allergic reaction
- Guillain-Barré syndrome
- SIRVA
Q: Who should not get the Pneumovax 23 vaccine?
A: People who should not get the Pneumovax 23 vaccine include:
- People who have had a severe allergic reaction to Pneumovax 23 in the past
- People who are sick with a high fever
Q: What are the alternatives to Pneumovax 23?
A: The only alternative to Pneumovax 23 is Prevnar 13. Prevnar 13 is a newer vaccine that protects against 13 of the most common types of pneumococcal bacteria.
Q: Should I get the Pneumovax 23 vaccine if I have already had the Prevnar 13 vaccine?
A: Yes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that all adults over the age of 65 and certain other people with weakened immune systems get both the Pneumovax 23 vaccine and the Prevnar 13 vaccine.