Does the VICP Cover Bell’s Palsy?
Bell’s palsy is a temporary or permanent paralysis affecting one side of the face. Vaccines such as the flu shot, hepatitis B, HPV, and meningococcal vaccines have been linked to Bell’s palsy in a small number of cases.
When this happens, victims may qualify for financial recovery through the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). At Pearsall Law Firm, P.C., we help injured people file these claims, build strong medical evidence, and recover the compensation they deserve.
Here’s what you need to know about how Bell’s palsy claims work under the VICP.
1. You Must Have Received a Covered Vaccine
The VICP only covers vaccines listed on the official Vaccine Injury Table. Fortunately, the vaccines most often linked to Bell’s palsy—including the flu shot, hepatitis B, HPV, and meningococcal vaccines—are all covered under the program.
This means that even though Bell’s palsy is rare, you can still file a claim if you meet the other eligibility requirements.
2. Bell’s Palsy Is an “Off-Table” Injury
Unlike conditions such as Guillain-Barré Syndrome or SIRVA, Bell’s palsy is not listed as an “on-table” injury. That means it’s considered off-table, and you must prove that the vaccine caused your condition.
This typically involves detailed medical documentation—showing the timing of symptom onset, your medical history, and ruling out other causes. Our firm specializes in developing this type of evidence through careful review and expert medical opinions.
3. The Injury Must Be Significant
To qualify for VICP compensation, your Bell’s palsy must have caused a serious, long-lasting impact—such as nerve damage, loss of facial movement, or other complications that persist for more than six months. The program also covers cases that required hospitalization, surgery, or that resulted in death.
4. You Must File Within the Time Limit
The VICP’s statute of limitations gives you three years from the first sign of Bell’s palsy symptoms to file your claim. If the injury resulted in death, families generally have two years to file.
Successful claimants can recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and up to $250,000 for pain and suffering.
It’s important to note that COVID-19 vaccines are not covered under the VICP. Claims involving those vaccines fall under the separate Countermeasures Injury Compensation Program (CICP).
If you or a loved one developed Bell’s palsy after a vaccine, contact Pearsall Law Firm, PC today by clicking “Contact Us Now” at the top of this page. Mr. Pearsall will personally review your case, research prior rulings, and help you pursue full compensation through the VICP—at no cost to you.