Written by

Tamatha Hazen

June 26, 2025

Edited by

Kristen Cramer

Fact-checked by

Jennifer Carlson

Tetanus shot cost

A tetanus shot costs $40 to $80 for the Td vaccine, the standard choice after deep or dirty wounds when vaccination status is uncertain or outdated. Tetanus toxoid (TT) costs $25 to $60 per dose for rare allergic cases. Tetanus Immune Globulin (TIG) provides immediate protection for high-risk wounds at $150 to $800+ per dose.

Tetanus shot price by type

Tetanus shots vary by purpose, including routine prevention, wound care, boosters, and special cases like allergies or immune issues. Common types include:

• Td (tetanus and diphtheria) costs $40 to $80 per dose and is the preferred vaccine used both for wound care when a tetanus shot is needed after an injury and as a routine booster every 10 years.

• TT (tetanus toxoid only) costs $25 to $60 per dose and is used only in rare cases for people with severe allergies to the diphtheria component.

• TIG (Tetanus Immune Globulin) is not a vaccine but an antibody treatment given alongside vaccines for immediate protection in high-risk wounds, especially if vaccination status is incomplete or the person is immunocompromised. A single-dose TIG treatment costs $150 to $800 or more.

• DTaP and Tdap protect against tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) and are given on a regular vaccine schedule for prevention, not used for wound care treatment. DTaP costs $0 to $75 per dose for the 5-dose series given to children, while Tdap costs $25 to $100 per dose for the booster vaccine given to adolescents and adults.

What is a tetanus shot?

A tetanus shot is a vaccine that protects against tetanus, a serious and potentially fatal disease caused by the bacteria Clostridium tetani, commonly found in soil, dust, and manure. Tetanus infections can occur when the bacteria enter the body through a wound, such as a cut or puncture (for example, stepping on a nail).

Once inside, the bacteria produce a toxin that causes painful muscle stiffness and spasms, often starting with the jaw (“lockjaw”).

When to get a tetanus shot

You should get a tetanus shot after an injury if:

• The wound is deep, puncture-like, contaminated with dirt, soil, saliva, or feces, contains dead tissue, or is caused by burns, crush injuries, or animal bites.

• For dirty or major wounds, get a tetanus shot if it’s been 5 or more years since your last dose, or if your vaccination history is incomplete or unknown.

• For clean, minor wounds, get a tetanus shot if it’s been 10 or more years since your last dose.

• Tetanus Immune Globulin (TIG) may be needed for high-risk wounds in people who are unvaccinated, incompletely vaccinated, or immunocompromised.

Tetanus shot cost factors

The cost of a tetanus shot can fluctuate based on several factors:

• Vaccine type: Different tetanus vaccine types have different out-of-pocket costs.

• Vaccine brand: Different brands (e.g., Boostrix, Adacel, Tenivac) have slightly different prices.

• Insurance coverage: Insurance often covers most or all of the cost of a tetanus shot, reducing your out-of-pocket expense.

• Provider type: Pharmacies and urgent care clinics offer lower prices than hospitals or emergency rooms.

• Administration fees: Some providers charge an additional administration fee of $7 to $20 per shot, which may not be included in the vaccine price.

• Clinic or pharmacy promotions: Some locations offer discounts or special pricing for members or during vaccine drives.

• Age and vaccine schedule: Pediatric vaccines are often less expensive per dose but require a 5-dose series.

Does Medicare cover tetanus shots?

Medicare Part B covers tetanus shots given for wound care after an injury, while Medicare Part D covers preventive tetanus vaccines like Tdap at no cost to the patient. Medicaid also covers recommended vaccines for eligible individuals, often with no out-of-pocket expense.

FAQs about tetanus shots

How long does a tetanus shot last?

A tetanus shot protects most people for about 10 years before a booster is needed. Protection decreases over time, so staying up to date is important.

How often do you need a tetanus shot?

Children should complete a five-dose DTaP series starting at 2 months of age and finishing between ages 4 and 6. After this, a Tdap booster is recommended at ages 11 to 12, followed by a Td or Tdap booster every 10 years throughout adulthood.

When should I get a tetanus shot after a cut?

If you have a deep or dirty wound and it’s been more than 5 years since your last tetanus shot, you should get a booster within 48 hours. For clean, minor wounds, a booster is only needed if it’s been more than 10 years since your last shot.

Do I need a tetanus shot for a small puncture?

Yes, even small puncture wounds can allow tetanus bacteria to enter the body, so you may need a booster if your last shot was more than 5 years ago or your vaccination status is uncertain. When in doubt, it’s safe to get another tetanus shot.

Can tetanus shots cause side effects?

Yes, tetanus shots can cause side effects. Most are mild and include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, mild fever, headache, fatigue, body aches, and nausea. These usually go away within a few days.

Can tetanus shots cause allergic reactions?

Allergic reactions to a tetanus shot are very rare. Signs include hives, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, or weakness. These symptoms often appear within minutes to a few hours after the shot. Seek immediate medical attention if they occur.

Where can I get a tetanus shot?

Tetanus shots are widely available at many healthcare locations, including:

• Urgent care clinics

• Pharmacies (such as Walgreens, CVS, and other retail chains)

• Primary care and pediatric offices

• Local health departments and federally funded health centers (which may offer low-cost or free vaccines for those without insurance)

Questions to ask your healthcare provider

Vaccines are essential for preventing tetanus, a serious infection caused by bacteria entering through wounds. Staying current with tetanus vaccinations protects your health and prevents disease. Be sure to ask your doctor these important questions:

• Am I up to date on my tetanus vaccinations?

• Which type of tetanus vaccine is recommended for me based on my age and health status?

• How often do I need a tetanus booster?

• What should I do if I get a wound? When do I need a tetanus shot?

• Are there certain types of wounds that increase my risk for tetanus?

• What are the possible side effects or allergic reactions to the tetanus vaccine?

• Will my insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid cover the cost of the vaccine?

• Are there any reasons I should not get the tetanus vaccine or should wait before getting it?

• What should I watch for after getting the vaccine?

• Are there alternatives if I cannot receive the standard tetanus vaccine?