J06.9

Acute upper respiratory infection, unspecified

Diseases of the respiratory system Billable
Quick Reference
Common cold or URI symptoms without identification of specific site

Clinical Information

When to Use This Code

Common cold or URI symptoms without identification of specific site

Common Clinical Scenarios

  • Common cold with congestion, cough, sore throat
  • Viral upper respiratory infection
  • Non-specific URI symptoms
  • Acute rhinitis and pharyngitis

Documentation Requirements

  • Document symptoms: nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, cough, sore throat
  • Note absence of lower respiratory involvement
  • Record likely viral vs. bacterial etiology
  • Document symptomatic treatment provided

Coding Guidelines

Inclusion Terms

These terms are included in this code:

Upper respiratory infection (URI)Upper respiratory tract infectionCommon coldAcute URI NOS

Exclusion Terms

Do NOT use this code for:

  • Influenza (J09-J11)
  • Acute pharyngitis (J02.-)
  • Acute sinusitis (J01.-)
  • Acute bronchitis (J20.-)

Coding Notes

Most common acute respiratory diagnosis
Use more specific codes when site identified (pharyngitis, sinusitis)
Do not use for lower respiratory infections

Related ICD-10 Codes

Consider these related codes based on patient presentation:

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Code Details

Code
J06.9
Category
Diseases of the respiratory system
Billable Status
Billable

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