What is the coding requirement for cases of influenza due to identified viruses as per the guidelines?

The coding requirement for cases of influenza due to identified viruses specifies that only confirmed cases should be coded. This means that there must be definitive documentation that verifies the presence of the influenza virus, such as laboratory test results showing the identification of the specific virus responsible for the illness. Using this approach ensures accuracy in coding and reflects the true epidemiology of the disease as recognized by coding guidelines.

Unconfirmed cases would not meet the criteria for coding because there is no definitive proof or documentation of the virus's presence. Coding all reported cases could lead to inaccuracies, as not every reported case is substantiated by laboratory evidence. Thus, focusing on confirmed cases maintains integrity and reliability in statistical data for influenza, ensuring that the coded conditions reflect the true burden of the disease in the population.