ICD-10 Code B06.01 – Rubella Encephalitis (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code B06.01 – Rubella encephalitis
What it is
B06.01 identifies encephalitis caused by rubella infection. Use it when the record shows inflammation of the brain linked to rubella, not uncomplicated rubella or a nonspecific viral illness.
Clinical signs
Clinical features vary; refer to documentation. Typical encephalitis findings may include altered mental status, confusion, seizures, focal neurologic deficits, or headache, with evidence that rubella is the cause.
When to use this code
Use this code when the provider documents rubella encephalitis, rubella with encephalitis, or a confirmed rubella-related central nervous system complication. It is appropriate when the encephalitis is clearly attributed to rubella in the assessment or discharge diagnosis.
Check documentation if the note only says rubella infection, viral encephalitis, or neurologic symptoms without a stated link to rubella. Code the documented condition and avoid assuming causation.
Do not use for
Do not use B06.01 for uncomplicated rubella, postinfectious encephalitis, or encephalitis from another organism. If the cause is not specified as rubella, choose the more accurate documented diagnosis.
Coding tip
Confirm that rubella is explicitly tied to the encephalitis in the provider’s wording before assigning B06.01.