Australian encephalitis

This code identifies a specific form of arboviral encephalitis caused by the Murray Valley encephalitis virus (MVEV), primarily found in Australia and Papua New Guinea. It is a severe neuroinvasive disease characterized by inflammation of the brain, often leading to significant neurological sequelae.

Use this code when documentation explicitly states a diagnosis of Australian encephalitis or Murray Valley encephalitis. Confirmation typically involves serological testing for MVEV antibodies or detection of viral RNA. This code is appropriate for both acute and sequelae phases of the infection.

• Ensure documentation clearly specifies "Australian encephalitis" or "Murray Valley encephalitis" to differentiate from other forms of viral encephalitis.
• Do not confuse with other arboviral encephalitides (e.g., Japanese encephalitis, West Nile encephalitis) unless specifically documented as such.
• Code any associated neurological manifestations or sequelae separately, linking them to the primary diagnosis if appropriate.