Vaccine Injury Guides
Plain-language explanations of injuries that come up in federal vaccine injury claims — what they are, how the rules treat them, and what records matter.
Good to know: Serious vaccine injuries are uncommon, and most people have only mild, short-lived side effects. These guides are for people who are dealing with an injury and want to understand their options. They are general information, not medical or legal advice.
Each guide notes whether the injury appears on the federal Vaccine Injury Table (42 CFR 100.3), quoting the regulation's time periods directly.
On the Table for most covered vaccines
SIRVA (Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration)
A shoulder injury — not a nerve injury — that can follow a shot given in the upper arm, with pain and reduced range of motion that don't fade like ordinary soreness.
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On the Table for seasonal flu vaccines
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)
A rare disorder in which the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, causing weakness that can come on quickly. It is on the Table for seasonal flu vaccines.
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Not on the Table (off-Table claim)
Transverse Myelitis
Inflammation of the spinal cord that can cause weakness, pain, numbness, and bladder or bowel problems. It is not on the Vaccine Injury Table.
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Not on the Table (off-Table claim)
CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy)
A long-lasting or recurring nerve disorder in which the immune system damages the covering of peripheral nerves. It is not on the Vaccine Injury Table.
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On the Table for tetanus-containing vaccines
Brachial Neuritis
A nerve injury involving the brachial plexus, usually starting with deep shoulder and arm pain followed by weakness. It is on the Table for tetanus-containing vaccines.
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On the Table for many covered vaccines
Anaphylaxis
A severe, rapid allergic reaction involving more than one body system. It is on the Table for many covered vaccines when it starts within 4 hours.
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On the Table for measles-containing vaccines
ITP (Immune Thrombocytopenia) and Thrombocytopenic Purpura
A low platelet count that can cause easy bruising and bleeding. Thrombocytopenic purpura is on the Table for measles-containing vaccines such as MMR.
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On the Table for injected vaccines
Fainting (Vasovagal Syncope) Injuries
Brief loss of consciousness after an injected vaccine. The faint itself usually passes quickly; claims typically involve injuries from a fall. It is on the Table for injected vaccines.
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Don't see your injury here? Other injuries may still be claimed as off-Table injuries. Read what injuries qualify for vaccine compensation or browse all articles.
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