ICD-10 Code B01.2 – Varicella pneumonia (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B01.2 – Varicella pneumonia
What it is
B01.2 identifies pneumonia caused by varicella-zoster virus, usually as a complication of chickenpox. Use it when the record documents varicella pneumonia rather than uncomplicated varicella.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include cough, shortness of breath, and chest imaging consistent with pneumonia in the setting of varicella infection. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents varicella pneumonia, varicella with pneumonia, or chickenpox complicated by pneumonia. It applies when pneumonia is attributed to the varicella infection and is not coded as a separate unrelated lung infection.
Do not use for
Do not use it for uncomplicated varicella without pulmonary involvement. Do not assign it if pneumonia is present but varicella is not documented as the cause; check documentation.
Coding tip
Verify that the chart links pneumonia to varicella before assigning B01.2.