"They Left Us No Choice": Woman With Vaccine Injury In Clinical Trial Sues AstraZeneca

Woman Sues AstraZeneca Over Vaccine Injury

An American woman, Brianne Dressen, has filed a lawsuit against AstraZeneca on May 13, after suffering an injury from the company's COVID-19 vaccine. Dressen, a preschool teacher in Utah, alleges that AstraZeneca breached a contract by not covering her medical expenses related to the injury.

The Clinical Trial and Aftermath

In 2020, Dressen volunteered for AstraZeneca’s clinical trial for its COVID-19 vaccine. She was reassured that the company would cover the costs of any research injuries and medical treatment. However, after receiving the vaccine, Dressen began experiencing health issues such as blurred vision, tinnitus, and vomiting, among others. She was later diagnosed with "post-vaccine neuropathy" by doctors from the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

Financial Burden and Lack of Support

The medical bills for Dressen's treatment began to accumulate, with the recommended immunoglobulin alone costing $9,909.82 a month. Despite keeping AstraZeneca and Velocity, the company that ran the trial, informed about the mounting costs, no financial aid was provided. The family was forced to refinance their home due to the financial strain.

Unfulfilled Promises

After a local television station reported on Dressen’s case in July 2021, Velocity promised a payment of $590.20. Although the company issued this payment and claimed to be in touch with AstraZeneca regarding more funds, no further financial assistance was provided. In December 2021, Dressen was asked to sign a statement agreeing to accept $1,243 in exchange for dropping any additional claims to payment, which she refused.

The Lawsuit

In her lawsuit, Dressen accuses AstraZeneca and Velocity of breach of contract and breach of duty. She is seeking damages for medical expenses, emotional distress, loss of income, and other expenses, along with attorney fees and prejudgment interest. Dressen is requesting a jury trial.

AstraZeneca's Vaccine Withdrawal

AstraZeneca’s vaccine, which was not approved for use outside clinical trials in the United States, is being withdrawn by the company due to limited demand. This decision follows the company's admission that the vaccine can cause blood clots and low levels of platelets, a condition known as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome.

Final Thoughts

The case of Brianne Dressen raises important questions about the responsibilities of pharmaceutical companies in clinical trials, especially in the context of a global pandemic. It highlights the potential risks faced by volunteers and the need for comprehensive support and compensation in case of adverse effects. What are your thoughts on this issue? Share this article with your friends and let's continue the conversation. Don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, delivered every day at 6pm.