Infection following immunization, initial encounter

This code signifies an infection that develops as a direct consequence of receiving an immunization. This includes localized infections at the injection site, such as cellulitis or abscesses, as well as systemic infections, provided they are causally linked to the vaccine administration. It specifically applies to the initial presentation and treatment of such an infection.

Use this code when a patient presents with signs and symptoms of an infection, and the medical record clearly documents that the infection occurred after and is attributed to a recent immunization. This would include cases where a patient develops a fever, redness, swelling, or purulent discharge at the injection site, or a more widespread infection, following a vaccine.

• Always sequence this code first if it is the primary reason for the encounter.
• Assign an additional code to identify the specific type of infection (e.g., L03.115 for cellulitis of the limb).
• Do not use this code for adverse reactions to immunizations that are not infectious in nature (e.g., allergic reactions, fever without infection).