How much do travel vaccines cost?
How much do travel vaccines cost?
$40 – $400 average cost per vaccine (without insurance)
Travel vaccine prices
Travel vaccines cost $40 to $400 each without insurance, depending on the vaccine, your location, and the healthcare provider. Some pharmacies and travel vaccine clinics charge an additional consultation fee or administrative fee of $25 to $95 on top of the vaccine price.
Many travel vaccines require a series of two or three injections spread out over several weeks, so it's important to start the vaccination process well before your departure date.
| Vaccine | Average cost (without insurance) |
|---|---|
| Chikungunya | $280 – $500 |
| Cholera | $275 – $400 |
| COVID-19 | $90 – $200 |
| Hepatitis A | $85 – $115 per dose $170 to $230 for full two-dose series |
| Hepatitis B | $40 – $110 per dose $120 – $330 for full three-dose series |
| HPV | $240 – $350 per dose $480 – $1,050 for full series (2-3 doses) |
| Influenza | $20 – $65 (standard quadrivalent flu vaccine) $50 – $110 (Fluzone High Dose for adults 65+) |
| Japanese Encephalitis | $300 – $420 per dose $600 – $840 for full two-dose series |
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | $90 – $125 per dose $180 – $250 for full two-dose series |
| Meningitis | $170 – $230 (Meningococcal Conjugate / MenACWY) $190 – $280 (Meningococcal Serogroup B / MenB) |
| Pneumonia | $120 – $350 |
| Polio | $40 – $85 per dose $160 – $340 for full four-dose series |
| Rabies | $800 – $1,300 (pre-exposure vaccination) $2,500 – $7,000 (post-exposure treatment) |
| Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) | $300 – $550 |
| Shingles | $180 – $250 per dose $360 – $500 for full two-dose series |
| Td (Tetanus, diphtheria) | $40 – $80 |
| Tdap (Tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis) | $40 – $100 |
| Twinrix (Hepatitis A and B) | $400 – $500 |
| Typhoid | $35 –$200 (oral vaccine) $80 – $250 (injectable vaccine) |
| Varicella (Chickenpox) | $150 – $275 per dose $300 – $550 for full two-dose series |
| Yellow fever | $220 – $250 |
Chikungunya vaccine
The chikungunya vaccine costs $280 to $500 without insurance. Chikungunya is a virus spread by mosquitoes that causes fever, headache, severe joint and muscle pain, joint swelling, and rashes. There is currently no medicine to treat chikungunya, so vaccination is recommended for people traveling to areas with outbreaks.
Cholera vaccine
The cholera vaccine costs $275 to $400 on average and is recommended for people traveling to areas with cholera outbreaks, or areas where the food may be unsafe to eat or access to clean water is limited. Vaxchora is the only cholera vaccine currently approved for use in the United States.
COVID-19 vaccine
The COVID-19 vaccine costs $90 to $200 without insurance. Ongoing protection from COVID-19 requires annual booster shots, as the vaccine mutates and new variants develop regularly.
Hepatitis A vaccine
The Hepatitis A vaccine costs $85 to $115 per dose or $170 to $230 total for the full two-dose series of injections. Hepatitis A is a highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). The infection affects the liver's ability to function properly, leading to inflammation and potential liver damage.
Hepatitis B vaccine
The Hepatitis B vaccine costs $40 to $110 per dose without insurance or $120 to $330 total for the full three-dose series. Hepatitis B is a serious infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and can lead to both acute and chronic liver disease, liver failure, liver cancer, or living scarring known as cirrhosis.
HPV vaccine
The HPV vaccine costs $240 to $350 per dose without insurance or $480 to $1,050 for the complete vaccination series of two to three doses. The number of doses needed depends on the individual's age when they receive the first dose.
The HPV vaccine protects against several types of Human Papillomavirus, the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI).
Influenza (flu) vaccine
A flu shot costs $20 to $65 without insurance for the standard quadrivalent flu vaccine or $50 to $110 for the high-dose vaccine for adults aged 65 and older. Most health insurance plans cover the full cost of an annual flu shot as a preventative measure.
Japanese Encephalitis vaccine
The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine costs $300 to $420 per dose or $600 to $840 total for the full two-dose series. Japanese Encephalitis is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes and affects the brain. While most infections cause mild or no symptoms, some infections can lead to severe disease and death.
Measles, Mumps, & Rubella (MMR) vaccine
The MMR vaccine costs $90 to $125 per dose without insurance or $180 to $250 for the complete two-dose series. This vaccine provides protection against measles, mumps, and rubella—three highly contagious viral diseases.
Meningitis vaccine
The meningitis vaccine costs $170 to $230 without insurance for the Meningococcal Conjugate (MenACWY) vaccine and $190 to $280 for the Meningococcal Serogroup B (MenB) vaccine.
Meningitis is a serious infection that causes inflammation of the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord, known as the meninges. Bacterial meningitis is particularly dangerous and can be fatal.
Pneumonia vaccine
The pneumonia vaccine costs $200 to $330 without insurance at local pharmacies. Medicare Part B and most health insurance plans cover the full cost of the vaccine with no copay or deductible.
The CDC recommends the pneumonia vaccine for all adults aged 50 and older, all children younger than 5 years old, and people with certain medical conditions or risk factors.
Polio vaccine
The polio vaccine costs $40 to $85 per dose without insurance or $160 to $340 total for the full four-dose series. Polio (poliomyelitis) is a highly contagious and incurable disease caused by the poliovirus., which attacks the nervous system and can cause permanent paralysis or even death in severe cases.
Rabies vaccine
The rabies vaccine for humans costs $800 to $1,300 in total for a two-dose series of pre-exposure rabies vaccination (PrEV). The CDC recommends the pre-exposure vaccine for people who are at higher risk of rabies infection due to frequent contact with animals.
Post-exposure rabies vaccination (PEP) costs $2,500 to $7,000+. Because rabies is almost always fatal if untreated, this life-saving vaccine is necessary if you've come into contact with the saliva or tissue of a rabid or potentially infected animal, such as through a bite or scratch.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine
The RSV vaccine costs $300 to $550 without insurance. Medicare Part D and most private health insurance plans cover the full cost of the vaccine with no co-pay. Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common but highly contagious virus that spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Shingles vaccine
The shingles vaccine costs $180 to $250 per dose without insurance or $360 to $500 total for the full two-dose series. Shingles is an infection caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. It causes painful rashes, which most commonly appear on only one side of the face or body.
The virus can cause severe long-term nerve pain, hearing problems, brain inflammation, permanent vision loss, and pneumonia.
Tdap vaccine
The Tdap vaccine costs $40 to $100 without insurance. The Tdap vaccine is a combination immunization that protects against tetanus, diphtheria, and acellular pertussis, also known as whooping cough. Protection via vaccination is crucial, as these serious health conditions can be fatal.
Tetanus (Td) vaccine
The Td vaccine costs $40 to $80. This vaccine protects against tetanus and diphtheria and is the standard vaccine for wound care when a patient needs a tetanus shot after an injury.
Typhoid vaccine
The typhoid vaccine costs $35 to $200 for the oral version and $80 to $250 for the injectable vaccine without insurance, depending on the provider. Typhoid fever is a life-threatening bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi.
It remains a serious health problem in many developing nations, particularly in parts of Asia, Africa, and South America where access to clean water and sanitation may be limited.
Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccine
The varicella vaccine costs $150 to $275 per dose without insurance or $300 to $550 total for the full two-dose series. Varicella, commonly known as chickenpox, is a highly contagious disease caused by the Varicella-Zoster virus (VZV).
While the disease is usually mild in children, it can cause more severe symptoms in adults, infants, pregnant women, and people with weakened immune systems.
Yellow fever vaccine
The yellow fever vaccine costs $220 to $250 on average. Yellow fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted by mosquitoes and is fatal for about half the patients who develop serious symptoms. The virus is primarily found in Africa and South America.
The yellow fever vaccine is the most effective way to protect yourself against the disease, and several countries require proof of vaccination from inbound travelers.
What vaccines do I need to travel?
Your personal health history and current vaccination status also play important roles in determining which vaccines are necessary. The vaccines you need depend on several factors, including:
Your destination
Whether you'll be spending time in rural or agricultural areas
Your accommodation type (hotel, tent, cabin, or hostel)
The season you're traveling
Type of activities planned
Check the CDC's Travelers' Health Destinations list to find out which vaccines they recommend for your specific travel destination.
International Certificate of Vaccination
For certain vaccines, particularly yellow fever, you'll receive an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP). This document serves as official proof of vaccination, and some countries require it. Keep this certificate with your passport, as you may need to present it at borders or to airline personnel.
Prescription medications vs. vaccines
In addition to vaccines, some travel destinations require prescription medications like antimalarial drugs. These medications are separate from vaccines and require different timing and considerations. Discuss both vaccination and medication needs with your healthcare provider during your pre-travel consultation.
What vaccines are needed to travel to Africa?
Travel to Africa may require several vaccines depending on your specific destination and activities. The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory for entry to many African countries and is highly recommended for travel to areas where the disease is endemic. Other commonly recommended vaccines for Africa include:
Routine vaccines: Ensure you're current on measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (Tdap), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and annual flu shots.
Hepatitis A and B: The CDC recommends these vaccines for all travelers to Africa to prevent contracting an infection through contaminated food, water, or contact with infected individuals.
Typhoid: The CDC recommends the typhoid vaccine for most travelers, especially those visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends and relatives.
Meningitis: Travelers need the meningitis vaccine for travel to the "meningitis belt" of sub-Saharan Africa during the dry season (December through June) and recommended for other areas during outbreaks.
Japanese Encephalitis: This vaccination is recommended for certain rural areas, particularly in eastern and southern Africa.
Rabies: Consider pre-exposure rabies vaccination if you'll be spending extended time outdoors, working with animals, or in areas where immediate medical care may not be available.
What vaccines are needed to travel to India?
Travel to India requires careful vaccination planning due to various health risks. The following vaccines are commonly recommended:
Routine vaccines: Ensure you're current on measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (Tdap), varicella (chickenpox), polio, and annual flu shots.
Hepatitis A and B: The CDC recommends these vaccines for all travelers to India due to the risk of contaminated food and water or contact with infected individuals.
Typhoid: The CDC recommends the typhoid vaccine for most travelers, especially those visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends and relatives.
Japanese Encephalitis: This vaccine is recommended for travelers spending extended time in rural areas, especially during monsoon season.
Cholera: The CDC recommends cholera vaccination for travelers visiting areas with ongoing outbreaks or poor sanitation.
Meningitis: Consider vaccination if traveling during peak season or to areas with recent outbreaks.
Rabies: Consider pre-exposure rabies vaccination for extended stays, adventure activities, or work involving animals.
Travel vaccination timing
Planning ahead is crucial for travel vaccinations. Some vaccines require time for your body to build up immunity, while others require multiple doses spread over several weeks or months to be fully effective.
For example, travelers must get the yellow fever vaccine at least 10 days before their departure. The hepatitis B vaccine series takes six months to complete. The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine requires two doses given 28 days apart, with the last dose given at least one week before travel.
Try to start your vaccination process at least 6 weeks before travel, though some vaccines can be given closer to departure if necessary.
Travel vaccination FAQs
Does insurance cover travel vaccines?
Insurance coverage for travel vaccines depends on your specific insurance plan and the type of vaccine. Most health insurance plans cover routine vaccines like flu shots, MMR, and tetanus as preventive care with no out-of-pocket cost. However, travel-specific vaccines are often elective and may not be covered.
Some insurance plans may cover travel vaccines if they're deemed medically necessary or if you're traveling for work. Check with your insurance provider before getting vaccinated to understand your coverage.
Does Medicare cover travel vaccines?
Medicare coverage for travel vaccines is limited. Medicare Part B covers certain vaccines that it considers preventive care, such as flu shots, pneumonia vaccines, and hepatitis B vaccines for people at high risk. However, it does not cover most travel-specific vaccines like yellow fever, Japanese Encephalitis, and typhoid.
Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) may cover vaccines recommended by the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), but coverage varies by plan. Medicare Advantage plans may offer additional vaccine coverage beyond traditional Medicare.
If you're a Medicare beneficiary planning international travel, check with your specific plan to understand which vaccines it covers.
Do you need vaccinations to travel?
Vaccination requirements for travel depend on your destination, departure location, and personal health status. Some countries legally require specific vaccinations for entry, particularly yellow fever vaccination for travelers coming from or transiting through yellow fever-endemic areas.
The CDC and World Health Organization (WHO) provide destination-specific recommendations based on disease risk, season, and activities planned. Even if vaccinations aren't legally required, they may be necessary to prevent serious illness or comply with travel insurance requirements.
Where to get travel vaccines
Travel vaccines are available from several sources:
Travel vaccination clinics
Pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens, and other major chains)
County health departments
Primary care physicians
The content of this site is for educational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice or services. The information provided should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of health problems. Always consult with a licensed healthcare professional for advice about any medical concerns.