Contact with and (suspected) exposure to anthrax

This code indicates that an individual has had contact with or is suspected of being exposed to Bacillus anthracis, the bacterium that causes anthrax. This exposure could be through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products, or through inhalation of anthrax spores. The individual may or may not be exhibiting symptoms of anthrax.

Use this code when a patient presents for evaluation following a known or suspected exposure to anthrax, such as after handling livestock that died suddenly, working with animal hides from endemic areas, or in the context of a bioterrorism concern. It is appropriate even if the patient is asymptomatic but requires monitoring or prophylactic treatment due to the exposure.

• Do not use this code if the patient has a confirmed diagnosis of anthrax; instead, code the specific type of anthrax (e.g., cutaneous, inhalation).
• Consider adding codes for any signs or symptoms the patient is exhibiting, if applicable, in addition to the exposure code.
• This code is for exposure only and does not indicate active infection.