What You Should Know About Guillain–Barré Syndrome Following Influenza Vaccination
Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare but serious autoimmune condition where the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, leading to muscle weakness and sometimes paralysis. While the condition may occur after an infection or, in very rare cases, following vaccination, the evidence overwhelmingly shows the risk from natural infection is many times higher than the risk from a vaccine.
GBS and Vaccines
Let’s review the recent nationwide Danish study published in “Guillain–Barré syndrome following influenza vaccination: A 15-year nationwide population-based case–control study” (Levison et al., PMC 9804417). In this study, the researchers found that among 1,295 first-time hospital-diagnosed GBS cases and 12,814 controls: only 1.5 % of the cases had received an influenza vaccine within the prior month, and the adjusted odds ratio was 1.9 (95 % CI: 1.1–3.2).
That means that while there is a small elevated risk of GBS within one month of influenza vaccination, the absolute increase in risk is very low (population-attributable fraction ~0.4%) and concentrated in that short time window.
But What About the Flu Itself?
Multiple studies show that the risk of developing GBS after an influenza infection is significantly higher than after receiving an influenza vaccine. For example, one study estimated approximately 17 GBS admissions per million influenza-coded healthcare encounters, compared to about 1 per million vaccinations. In other words, contracting the flu poses a far greater threat of GBS than being vaccinated.
Why This Matters for Vaccine Injury Patients
If you or a loved one developed GBS following a covered vaccine, you may be eligible to file a petition under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP). GBS is a recognized “table injury” for some vaccines, meaning no proof of causation is required if timing and clinical criteria are met. Conversely, the data also support the overarching safety and benefit of vaccination – vaccines remain a safe and effective way to prevent influenza and reduce the risk of severe outcomes, including GBS triggered by infection.
Bottom Line for Potential Claimants
GBS is very rare, but it is recognized under the VICP for claims arising after vaccines listed on the Vaccine Injury Table.
A small elevated risk of GBS has been identified after influenza vaccination, but the absolute risk remains extremely low (around 1–2 extra cases per million vaccine doses).
The risk of GBS from influenza infection itself is much higher—so vaccination offers a net protective effect.
If you developed GBS within the defined period after vaccination, it’s critical to act quickly — talk to an experienced vaccine injury attorney and evaluate your eligibility under the VICP.
At Pearsall Law Firm, P.C., we specialize in VICP claims for injuries like GBS. Mr. Pearsall it a trusted, top litigator who understands the science, the statute, and the process. If you or someone you know may have a claim, contact us today for a free case review.