How much does the Tdap vaccine cost?
How much does the Tdap vaccine cost?
$25 – $100 Tdap vaccine cost (without insurance)
$0 – $75 DTaP vaccine cost per dose (without insurance)
Tdap vaccine cost
The Tdap vaccine costs $25 to $100 without insurance. The cost of a Tdap vaccine varies by location, insurance coverage, and healthcare provider. For infants and children, the DTaP vaccine costs $0 to $75 per dose and involves 5 doses over the child's first 6 years.
| Vaccine | Average cost without insurance |
|---|---|
| Tdap (single dose immunization) | $25 – $100 |
| DTaP (pediatric 5-dose series) | $0 – $75 per dose |
| Administration fee (when applicable) | $7 – $20+ per vaccine* |
*Separate fee charged by some clinics.
What is the Tdap vaccine?
The Tdap vaccine is a combination immunization that protects against three bacterial diseases:
Tetanus is a serious condition that causes painful muscle stiffness and can be fatal.
Diphtheria is a severe throat infection that can lead to breathing problems, heart failure, and paralysis.
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, causes severe coughing fits and can be especially dangerous for infants.
The vaccine works by stimulating the immune system to produce antibodies against these diseases, providing protection without causing the actual illnesses.
What is the difference between the Tdap and DTaP vaccine?
While both Tdap and DTaP protect against the same diseases. The main difference lies in the concentration of the components, tailored to be appropriate and effective for different age groups:
DTaP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and acellular Pertussis): This vaccine is given to children under 7 years old. It contains a 3 to 5 times higher dose of the diphtheria and pertussis components.
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and acellular Pertussis): This is the adolescent and adult version of the vaccine. It contains reduced doses of diphtheria and pertussis toxoids compared to DTaP.
The Td vaccine is another immunization option that protects against tetanus and diphtheria only. Due to supply constraints after one of the two manufacturers discontinued production, the Td vaccine is typically reserved for patients 7 years or older who are allergic to pertussis-containing vaccines.
The reason the pediatric and adult versions of the vaccine are written differently is to clarify the dosage strength of each component. The uppercase letters indicate that the vaccine contains a full-strength dose of that part of the vaccine.
What affects the cost of the Tdap vaccine?
Several factors can influence the price of the Tdap vaccine:
Healthcare provider: Prices may differ between pharmacies, clinics, and doctor's offices. The most affordable outlets are often through public health and human services departments.
Administration costs: Many clinics charge a separate administration fee of $7 to $20+ per vaccine.
Geographic location: Vaccine costs vary by state and sometimes by city or county as well.
Insurance coverage: Most insurance plans cover the Tdap vaccine as a preventive service.
Who should get the Tdap vaccine?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the Tdap vaccine for various groups:
All adolescents 11 to 12 years of age should receive a single dose.
All adults should get a single dose, and then a booster dose every 10 years.
All pregnant women should receive one dose during each pregnancy.
All healthcare personnel who have not received the vaccine already should get a dose.
Anyone in close contact with infants, such as parents, siblings, grandparents, and caregivers should be Tdap/DTaP vaccinated.
Tdap/DTaP vaccine schedule
The recommended Tdap (or DTaP) vaccine schedule varies by age:
| Life stage | Recommended Tdap vaccine schedule |
|---|---|
| Children |
|
| Adults |
|
| Pregnant women |
|
Risks & side effects
While the Tdap vaccine is generally safe, like all medical interventions, it can have side effects:
Common side effects:
Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site
Mild fever
Headache
Fatigue
Nausea or vomiting
Stomach pain
Rare but serious side effects (Call 911 or head to the closest ER):
Dizziness
Hives or swelling of the face and throat
Rapid heart rate
Trouble breathing
Nervous system problems (extremely rare)
Always discuss any concerns or medical history with a healthcare provider before receiving the vaccine.
Tdap vaccine FAQs
Where can I get the Tdap vaccine for free?
Many local health departments, community health centers, and some pharmacies offer the Tdap vaccine for free or at a reduced cost, especially for those who are uninsured or underinsured. Additionally, the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program provides free vaccines to eligible children.
To qualify for the VFC program, children must be younger than 19 years old and meet one of the following criteria: Uninsured, Medicaid-eligible or Medicaid-enrolled, American Indian or Alaska Native, or Underinsured.
Is the Tdap vaccine covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans cover the Tdap vaccine as a preventive service, often with no out-of-pocket cost to the patient—even those who haven't made their yearly deductible. Medicare and Medicaid cover the Tdap vaccine, and all vaccines recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP).
Check with your insurance provider directly to confirm your specific coverage details.
How long after the Tdap vaccine can side effects occur?
Most side effects, if they occur, appear within 1 to 3 days after vaccination and typically resolve within a few days. However, it's important to monitor for any unusual symptoms and report them to a healthcare provider.
How long does the Tdap vaccine last?
The protection provided by the Tdap vaccine varies for each disease component:
Tetanus and diphtheria protection lasts about 10 years.
Pertussis protection may wane after 2 to 5 years.
This is why booster shots are recommended every 10 years for adults.
Is a Tdap vaccine a tetanus shot?
While the Tdap vaccine does provide protection against tetanus, it's more comprehensive than a simple tetanus shot. A tetanus shot (Td) only protects against tetanus and diphtheria, while Tdap also includes protection against pertussis.
Is the Tdap vaccine safe for pregnancy?
Yes, the Tdap vaccine is not only safe but strongly recommended during pregnancy. It helps protect the newborn from pertussis in the crucial first months of life before the baby can be vaccinated.
Where to get the Tdap vaccine
You can get the Tdap vaccine at:
Doctor's offices
Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens
Local health departments
Community health clinics & events
School immunization programs
Travel clinics for those planning international travel
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