ICD-10 Code A82.0 – Sylvatic rabies (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code A82.0 – Sylvatic rabies
What it is
A82.0 identifies rabies acquired from wild animals, also called sylvatic rabies. Use it when the record documents rabies linked to wildlife exposure rather than domestic animal transmission.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Rabies is typically a progressive viral encephalitis with neurologic symptoms such as agitation, hydrophobia, dysphagia, or paralysis.
When to use this code
Use A82.0 when the provider documents sylvatic rabies, wild-animal rabies, or rabies from a wildlife source. Code the confirmed diagnosis, not just exposure or bite history. If the source animal is not specified, check documentation before assigning this code.
Do not use for
Do not use this code for rabies exposure, suspected rabies, or bites without confirmed disease. Check documentation if the source is domestic or if the diagnosis is another rabies category.
Coding tip
Assign A82.0 only when the record clearly links rabies to a wild animal source.