Update on settlement process for victims of meningitis outbreak linked to tainted steroid injections.
The Detroit Free Press is reporting that a federal judge has been asked to approve a $100 million settlement with owners of a Massachusetts compounding pharmacy that distributed steroid shots tainted with deadly fungal meningitis. Claims had to be submitted by January 15, 2014. It is anticipated that a fund will be created to distribute the proceeds to victims and families starting sometime in 2015.
Tainted steroid shots were administered in Macomb, Livingston, Genesee, and Grand Traverse counties. CDC has reported 264 Michigan cases including 19 deaths.
Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette previously announced a grand jury to investigate possible criminal charges against the company. The U.S. Attorney has also been investigating but no charges have been announced.
The Michigan Legislature has been working on legislation to strengthen oversight of compounding pharmacies. Senate Bill 704 (2013) was recently passed out of committee. We hope it moves quickly and the Governor signs this legislation.
Many of our clients have received steroid injections for neck and back pain. It is a common treatment and considered relatively safe. We hope this tragedy does not discourage injured workers from seeking appropriate treatment.
Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers never charges a fee to evaluate a case. We have represented injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation.
Related information:
CDC Multistate Meningitis Outbreak Investigation Update
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