Medicare Rabies Vaccine Coverage in 2025: Costs and Eligibility Explained

In 2024, Medicare Part B covers rabies vaccines that are medically necessary after exposure to the virus. This includes treatment if you have been bitten or scratched by an animal suspected of carrying rabies, ensuring you receive prompt and essential care.

However, Medicare Part B does not cover the rabies preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP) vaccine, which is recommended for individuals at higher risk of rabies exposure due to their occupation or living environment.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) advises certain groups, such as laboratory workers handling the rabies virus or people frequently exposed to bats or potentially rabid animals, to receive the preexposure vaccine.

Medicare Part B: Postexposure Rabies Vaccine Coverage

Medicare Part B, which covers outpatient medical services, includes coverage for medically necessary vaccines like the rabies vaccine after exposure. This vaccine is not part of routine immunizations but is covered when treating an injury or potential infection from rabies.

For more information on preventive services covered by Medicare, visit official Medicare resources.

Medicare Part D: Coverage for Rabies Preexposure Prophylaxis

Medicare Part D, which provides prescription drug coverage, may cover the rabies PrEP vaccine if you qualify under ACIP guidelines. This coverage is particularly relevant for those at high risk, including:

• Laboratory personnel working with the rabies virus
• Individuals frequently in contact with bats
• Professionals performing animal necropsies
• People interacting regularly with animals potentially carrying rabies

Part D plans usually cover both the vaccine and administration costs at no additional expense to the beneficiary.

Note that Part D does not cover postexposure rabies vaccines, as those fall under Part B coverage.

Remember, Part D is available only to those with Original Medicare. If you have a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, you cannot enroll in a separate Part D plan.

Explore how to select the best Part D plan for your needs.

Rabies Vaccine Coverage Under Medicare Advantage Plans

Medicare Advantage plans are required to offer coverage comparable to Original Medicare, including medically necessary vaccines after rabies exposure.

Many Medicare Advantage plans also include prescription drug coverage similar to Part D, but coverage details for rabies vaccines can vary. It is important to check with your plan administrator to confirm if preexposure or postexposure rabies vaccinations are covered.

Learn more about vaccine coverage options available through Medicare to make informed healthcare decisions.

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