Case Law Database

DANA BROUSSARD vs. STATE OF CALIFORNIA, LANCASTER STATE PRISON

This case concerns an office technician who developed transverse myelitis following a Hepatitis B vaccination series received as part of her employment. The applicant's physician, Dr. Chodakiewitz, concluded that it was medically probable the vaccination caused the injury, despite acknowledging other potential causes could not be definitively ruled out. The Workers' Compensation Appeals Board granted reconsideration and found substantial evidence supporting injury arising out of and occurring in the course of employment (AOE/COE). The Board affirmed the WCJ's finding of AOE/COE, reversing the prior decision to defer this issue.