Conditions/Infectious Diseases

COVID-19

Diagnostic Code 6312Infectious Diseases

Infectious disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus with acute and chronic manifestations. Acute illness ranges from asymptomatic to severe respiratory failure. Long COVID (post-acute sequelae) includes fatigue, dyspnea, cognitive dysfunction, chest pain, and multiple organ system effects persisting >4 weeks. Complications include pneumonia, ARDS, myocarditis, thromboembolism.

VA Rating Criteria (38 CFR)
100%

Hospitalization for acute severe infection requiring ICU/ventilator (temporary); or incapacitating long COVID with severe multi-organ dysfunction

60%

Severe persistent symptoms. Significant multi-system effects, severe fatigue precluding most activities, severe dyspnea, disabling cognitive impairment

30%

Moderate persistent symptoms. Chronic fatigue, dyspnea limiting activities, cognitive dysfunction ('brain fog') affecting work or daily life

10%

Mild persistent symptoms (occasional fatigue, mild dyspnea with exertion) not significantly limiting function

0%

Fully recovered with no residual symptoms or effects

Evidence You'll Need

Medical Evidence

Current diagnosis from a qualified healthcare provider, medical records documenting symptoms and treatment history

Service Connection

Evidence linking your condition to military service (service treatment records, incident reports, or nexus letter)

Personal Statement

Your detailed account of how covid-19 affects your daily life and when symptoms began

Lay Evidence

Buddy letters from fellow service members or family who can corroborate your symptoms

C&P Exam Tips Preview

During your Compensation & Pension exam for covid-19, examiners will assess your symptoms against the rating criteria above.

Be specific: Describe your worst day, not your average day

Document everything: Bring copies of all medical records and evidence

Functional impact: Explain how symptoms affect work, sleep, and daily activities

Ready to Build Your Claim for COVID-19?

Use ClaimDuty AI to generate a personalized statement, gather evidence, and prepare for your C&P exam.

Scout

VA Claims Assistant

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