ICD-10 Code B00.3 – Herpesviral meningitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B00.3 – Herpesviral meningitis
What it is
B00.3 identifies meningitis caused by herpes simplex virus or another herpesvirus. Use it when the record documents viral inflammation of the meninges due to herpesviral infection.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical findings include headache, fever, neck stiffness, photophobia, and other meningitis signs, with evidence that a herpesvirus is the cause.
When to use this code
Use B00.3 when the provider explicitly diagnoses herpesviral meningitis, or when meningitis is documented as due to herpes simplex or another herpesvirus. It may also apply when laboratory or clinical notes clearly support herpesviral etiology. If the cause is not stated, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for meningitis from non-herpesviral causes, including bacterial, fungal, or other viral infections. Do not code it for herpes simplex infection without documented meningitis.
Coding tip
Link the meningitis diagnosis to the documented herpesviral cause in the record before coding B00.3.