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Official Description

Influenza virus vaccine, trivalent (IIV3), split virus, preservative-free, for intradermal use

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

A trivalent, split virus, preservative-free influenza vaccine product for intradermal use is provided under CPT® Code 90654. This vaccine is designed to stimulate the immune system to produce its own antibodies against specific strains of the influenza virus, thereby providing active, long-term immunity. Unlike immune globulins, which offer short-term, passive immunity, vaccines like this one expose the recipient's immune system to altered versions of the virus, prompting a robust immune response. The body retains a memory of how to produce these antibodies, ensuring a quicker and more effective response upon subsequent exposures to the virus.

The term "preservative-free" indicates that the formulation does not contain the preservative thimerosal, or contains only trace amounts of it. The FDA recognizes both thimerosal-free and thimerosal-reduced formulations as preservative-free, and they are labeled accordingly. This vaccine is specifically administered via intradermal injection, which is a distinct procedure that must be reported separately. The production of this influenza vaccine involves the use of embryonated chicken eggs, where the virus is harvested, inactivated with formaldehyde, concentrated, purified, and chemically disrupted to create a split virus. The trivalent formulation includes two different strains of influenza type A and one strain of influenza type B, ensuring broad protection against circulating influenza viruses.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The influenza virus vaccine, trivalent (IIV3), split virus, preservative-free, for intradermal use is indicated for the prevention of influenza disease caused by the specific strains of the virus included in the vaccine formulation. The vaccine is recommended for individuals who are at risk of influenza complications, including but not limited to:

  • High-Risk Populations: Individuals with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease, who may experience severe illness from influenza.
  • Healthcare Workers: Those who are in close contact with patients and are at increased risk of exposure to the influenza virus.
  • Older Adults: Individuals aged 65 years and older, who are more susceptible to severe influenza-related complications.
  • Pregnant Women: Pregnant individuals, as they are at higher risk for severe illness from influenza and can also pass antibodies to their infants.

2. Procedure

The administration of the influenza virus vaccine involves several key procedural steps to ensure proper delivery and effectiveness of the vaccine. Each step is critical to the overall success of the vaccination process.

  • Step 1: Preparation of the Vaccine The vaccine is prepared by ensuring that it is at the appropriate temperature and is well-mixed. This may involve gently shaking the vial to ensure uniform distribution of the vaccine components.
  • Step 2: Selection of Injection Site The healthcare provider selects an appropriate site for the intradermal injection, typically the inner forearm, where the skin is thin and easily accessible.
  • Step 3: Cleansing the Injection Site The selected injection site is cleansed with an alcohol swab to reduce the risk of infection and ensure a sterile environment for the injection.
  • Step 4: Administration of the Vaccine Using a fine needle, the healthcare provider administers the vaccine intradermally, which involves inserting the needle just beneath the skin's surface to deliver the vaccine into the dermal layer.
  • Step 5: Post-Administration Care After the injection, the site may be covered with a bandage if necessary, and the patient is monitored for any immediate adverse reactions. Instructions for post-vaccination care and potential side effects are provided to the patient.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for the influenza vaccine involves monitoring the patient for any immediate adverse reactions, such as redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site. Patients are typically advised to remain in the healthcare setting for a short period after vaccination to ensure they do not experience any severe allergic reactions. Additionally, patients should be informed about common side effects, which may include mild fever, fatigue, or muscle aches, and are encouraged to report any unusual symptoms. It is also important to remind patients that the vaccine takes about two weeks to provide optimal protection against influenza, and they should continue to practice preventive measures, such as hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, during this period.

Short Descr FLU VACC IIV3 NO PRESERV ID
Medium Descr INFLUENZA VACC IIV3 SPLIT VIRUS PRSRV FREE ID
Long Descr Influenza virus vaccine, trivalent (IIV3), split virus, preservative-free, for intradermal use
Related Drugs FLUZONE Intradermal
Status Code Statutory Exclusion (from MPFS, may be paid under other methodologies)
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Influenza, Pneumococcal Pneumonia, Hepatitis B, and Covid-19 Vaccines; Monoclonal Antibody Therapy Product
Type of Service (TOS) V - Pneumococcal/Flu Vaccine
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) O1G - Immunizations/Vaccinations
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 228 - Prophylactic vaccinations and inoculations
Date
Action
Notes
2024-12-31 Deleted Code Deleted. See 90653, 90655, 90656, 90657, 90658, 90660, 90661, 90662, 90664, 90666, 90667, 90668, 90672, 90673, 90674, 90682, 90685, 90686, 90687, 90688, 90689, 90694, 90756
2015-01-01 Changed Description Changed
2012-01-01 Added First appearance in code book.
2011-01-01 Added Released 2010-07-01. Implemented 2011-01-01
1991-12-31 Deleted Code deleted.
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Description
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Description
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