What You Should Know About Guillain-Barre Syndrome and the Flu Shot

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare but serious autoimmune disorder that has been linked to certain vaccines—most notably, the annual flu shot. While most people experience only mild side effects after vaccination, a small number develop GBS, which can cause lasting nerve and muscle complications.

At Pearsall Law Firm, PC, we help clients nationwide understand their rights and recover compensation through the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).

Here are 10 essential facts everyone should know:

1. The Flu Shot Is a Recognized Trigger for GBS
Although doctors don’t fully understand why, medical research confirms that the flu shot can trigger GBS in rare cases. When this happens, the immune system attacks nerve cells, causing pain, weakness, and sometimes paralysis.

2. Other Vaccines Can Trigger GBS Too
Tetanus vaccines (DTaP, Td, and Tdap) have also been linked to Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Like the flu shot, they can cause an abnormal immune response in certain individuals.

3. GBS Has Many Possible Symptoms
Symptoms include difficulty walking, breathing, or swallowing, changes in heart rate or blood pressure, and loss of motor control or reflexes. If these appear within weeks after a vaccine, immediate medical attention is critical.

4. The Complications Can Be Severe
GBS can cause long-term problems such as chronic pain, muscle weakness, or even paralysis. Some patients require months of rehabilitation, while others experience lifelong symptoms.

5. The Financial Burden Can Be Overwhelming
Between medical costs, lost wages, and ongoing care, GBS can easily cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. That’s why the VICP exists—to help victims recover financially.

6. The VICP Covers GBS from Flu Shots
The VICP recognizes GBS as a covered injury when it occurs within 3 to 42 days of vaccination. This makes it easier for claimants to prove their case and recover compensation.

7. You Don’t Have to Prove Causation
Because GBS is an “on-table” injury under the VICP, the law presumes it was caused by the vaccine if symptoms appear in that window.

8. You Have Three Years to File a Claim
You must file within three years from the onset of your first symptoms—or within two years if the vaccine injury led to death.

9. Hiring a Lawyer Costs You Nothing
The VICP pays all attorney’s fees separately, so you can hire a vaccine injury lawyer at no cost to you. In fact, it not only costs nothing, but it can save a small fortune, since the attorney will cover the thousands of dollars of costs in hiring expert witnesses, retrieving medical records, and filing the case.

10. GBS Can Have Lifelong Consequences
GBS can change your life—but you don’t have to face it alone. The VICP offers a legal path toward financial and emotional recovery.

If you’ve been diagnosed with GBS after a flu or tetanus vaccine, contact Pearsall Law today by clicking “Contact Us Now” at the top of this page. Mr. Pearsall will personally review your case, explain your options, and help you maximize compensation under the VICP.