Venezuelan equine fever

This code identifies a viral zoonotic disease caused by alphaviruses, specifically Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus. It typically presents with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, myalgia, and malaise, and can, in severe cases, lead to encephalitis. The disease is primarily transmitted to humans through mosquito bites, with equids serving as amplifying hosts.

Assign this code when documentation confirms a diagnosis of Venezuelan equine fever in a human patient. This diagnosis is typically supported by laboratory confirmation (e.g., serology, PCR) or strong epidemiological evidence in an endemic area. It should be used for both confirmed and suspected cases where the clinical picture is consistent with the disease.

• Differentiate from other arboviral encephalitides; ensure documentation specifically states "Venezuelan equine fever."
• Do not use for equine cases; this code is for human diagnoses only.
• Consider additional codes for specific neurological manifestations (e.g., encephalitis, meningitis) if documented.