Influenza due to ident novel influenza A virus w pneumonia

This code signifies a confirmed influenza infection caused by a newly identified influenza A virus strain, specifically when the infection has progressed to involve pneumonia. It indicates a lower respiratory tract infection directly attributable to a novel influenza A pathogen.

Apply this code when documentation explicitly states "novel influenza A" and "pneumonia" as a direct consequence of the influenza. This typically occurs during outbreaks or pandemics involving new influenza A strains. Supporting documentation includes laboratory confirmation of the novel influenza A virus and chest imaging or clinical findings consistent with pneumonia.

• Ensure the documentation clearly specifies "novel" influenza A, not just general influenza A.
• Always confirm the presence of pneumonia; if only influenza without pneumonia is documented, a different code is required.
• Sequence this code as the primary diagnosis when it is the reason for the encounter.