ICD-10 Code J06 – Acute Upper Respiratory Infections of Multiple and Unspecified Sites (2026): Diagnosis, Symptoms & Billing Guide
2026 ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code J06 – Acute upper respiratory infections of multiple and unspecified sites
What it is
J06 identifies an acute infection affecting the upper respiratory tract when the site is multiple or not clearly specified. Use it for short-term infections above the lungs when documentation does not name a more precise site.
Clinical signs
Typical findings include sore throat, nasal congestion, rhinorrhea, cough, and general upper respiratory discomfort. Clinical features vary; refer to documentation.
When to use this code
Use J06 when the provider documents an acute upper respiratory infection but does not specify a single site such as the nose, pharynx, or larynx. It also fits cases described as involving multiple upper respiratory sites. Check documentation if the record names a more specific diagnosis.
Do not use for
Do not use J06 for lower respiratory infections, influenza, or chronic respiratory conditions. If the chart identifies a specific upper respiratory diagnosis, code that condition instead.
Coding tip
Code to the most specific upper respiratory diagnosis documented; use J06 only when the site remains multiple or unspecified.