CPT® Code 90691

The CPT® Code 90691 refers to the Typhoid vaccine, specifically the Vi capsular polysaccharide (ViCPs) formulation, which is administered via intramuscular injection. Vaccines, such as this one, are designed to provide active, long-term immunity by stimulating the recipient's immune system. Unlike immune globulins that offer short-term, passive immunity, vaccines expose the immune system to altered forms of specific pathogens, prompting it to produce its own antibodies. This process enables the body to "remember" how to generate these antibodies upon future exposure to the same antigen. Typhoid fever, caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, rash, and diarrhea, and is transmitted through contaminated food, water, and milk. The use of this vaccine is crucial in preventing typhoid infection, particularly in areas where the disease is prevalent. It is important to note that there are different preparations of vaccines available for typhoid protection; for instance, code 90690 is designated for an oral vaccine that contains the live, actual virus, while code 90691 is specifically for the ViCPs vaccine intended for intramuscular use. These codes are utilized solely to report the specific vaccine product administered.