ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A05.5: Foodborne Vibrio vulnificus intoxication

A05.5 is a billable and specific ICD-10-CM code. Accurate documentation of A05.5 facilitates proper diagnosis, effective management, and correct reimbursement.

This guideline will provide the use, official coding guidelines, and historical background of A05.5.

What is the ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code for Foodborne Vibrio vulnificus intoxication?

The ICD-10-CM diagnosis code for Foodborne Vibrio vulnificus intoxication is A05.5.

Vibrio vulnificus is a gram-negative, rod-shaped bacterium found in warm, brackish seawater. It belongs to the Vibrio genus, which includes other bacteria like Vibrio cholerae (causing cholera).

Foodborne Vibrio vulnificus intoxication is a serious bacterial infection caused by consuming raw or undercooked seafood, particularly oysters, contaminated with Vibrio vulnificus. It can lead to severe food poisoning.

Proper documentation using A05.5 ensures patients receive appropriate care and enables accurate healthcare reimbursement.

Synonyms

Food poisoning due to vibrio vulnificus
Vibrio vulnificus food poisoning

History Background of ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A05.5

The ICD-9-CM system, first introduced in 1979, provided the initial framework for coding diseases and health-related conditions in the United States.

The ICD-9-CM code for foodborne Vibrio vulnificus intoxication is 005.81.This coding remained consistent from 1979 to 2015.

While the ICD-9-CM system offered a basic approach to disease classification, modern healthcare needs more detail and specificity.

To address this, the ICD-10-CM system was launched in 2015, introducing a more comprehensive and accurate coding structure.

The transition from ICD-9-CM to ICD-10-CM significantly improved the ability to document and analyze conditions such as foodborne Vibrio vulnificus intoxication .

The 2025 edition of ICD-10-CM A05.5 became effective on October 1, 2024.

Year	ICD-10-CM Code	Description
2020	A05.5	No Change
2021	A05.5	No Change
2022	A05.5	No Change
2023	A05.5	No Change
2024	A05.5	No Change
2025	A05.5	No Change

Other ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Codes in A05

ICD-10-CM code A05 | Other bacterial foodborne intoxications, not elsewhere classified has following sub categories including A05.5 :

A05.0 Foodborne staphylococcal intoxication.
A05.1 Botulism food poisoning.
A05.2 Foodborne Clostridium perfringens [Clostridium welchii] intoxication.
A05.3 Foodborne Vibrio parahaemolyticus intoxication.
A05.4 Foodborne Bacillus cereus intoxication.
A05.5 Foodborne Vibrio vulnificus intoxication.
A05.8 Other specified bacterial foodborne intoxications.
A05.9 Bacterial foodborne intoxication, unspecified.

Final Thought

Proper coding of A05.5 is essential for diagnosing and managing Foodborne Vibrio vulnificus intoxication. A clear understanding of its History, and correct usage enhances medical documentation and ensures effective treatment, patient care, supports healthcare planning, and guarantees proper reimbursement for medical services.

Dr. Sehrish Bano, CPB & CPC

As a certified professional in both billing and coding, I specialize in streamlining healthcare revenue cycles and ensuring accurate claim submissions. With more than five years of experience serving the healthcare industry in the USA, I bring expertise in coding accuracy, compliance, and reimbursement optimization. My work focuses on reducing errors, improving efficiency, and supporting providers in delivering quality care without administrative hurdles. I am committed to helping healthcare organizations achieve financial stability and compliance through reliable billing and coding practices.