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CPT®
90720

CPT® Code 90720

Official Description

Diphtheria, tetanus toxoids, and whole cell pertussis vaccine and Haemophilus influenzae b vaccine (DTwP-Hib), for intramuscular use

© Copyright 2026 American Medical Association. All rights reserved.

Common Language Description

The CPT® Code 90720 refers to the Diphtheria, tetanus toxoids, and whole cell pertussis vaccine combined with the Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine (DTwP-Hib), which is administered via intramuscular injection. This vaccine is designed to provide long-lasting immunity against several serious bacterial infections. Toxoids, which are inactivated toxins produced by bacteria, stimulate the immune system to generate antibodies that can neutralize these toxins. By introducing altered versions of specific bacteria or viruses into the body, vaccines like DTwP-Hib help the immune system recognize and remember these pathogens, enabling it to respond more effectively upon future exposures. The process of creating a toxoid involves culturing the bacteria in a liquid medium, followed by purification and inactivation of the toxic substances they produce. This particular code is used to report the supply of the immunization against diphtheria and tetanus, in conjunction with the whole cell form of the inactivated pertussis vaccine and the Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine. It is important to note that there are other related codes for different formulations of these vaccines, such as code 90721 for the acellular pertussis variant and code 90723 for a combination that includes Hepatitis B and inactivated poliovirus vaccines. Each of these codes specifically identifies the product used in the immunization process.

© Copyright 2026 Coding Ahead. All rights reserved.

1. Indications

The Diphtheria, tetanus toxoids, and whole cell pertussis vaccine combined with the Haemophilus influenzae type b vaccine (DTwP-Hib) is indicated for the prevention of several serious infectious diseases. The following conditions are explicitly associated with the administration of this vaccine:

  • Diphtheria - A bacterial infection that affects the mucous membranes of the throat and nose, leading to severe respiratory issues and potential complications.
  • Tetanus - A serious bacterial infection characterized by muscle stiffness and spasms, often resulting from wounds contaminated with the bacteria.
  • Pertussis (Whooping Cough) - A highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the Bordetella pertussis bacteria, leading to severe coughing fits and respiratory distress.
  • Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) - A bacterium that can cause severe infections, particularly in young children, including meningitis, pneumonia, and epiglottitis.

2. Procedure

The administration of the DTwP-Hib vaccine involves several key procedural steps to ensure proper immunization:

  • Step 1: Preparation - Prior to administration, the healthcare provider must gather all necessary materials, including the vaccine vial, syringes, and alcohol swabs. The vaccine should be inspected for any discoloration or particulate matter, ensuring it is safe for use.
  • Step 2: Patient Assessment - The healthcare provider should assess the patient’s medical history, including any previous allergic reactions to vaccines, current health status, and any contraindications to the vaccine. This assessment is crucial for ensuring patient safety.
  • Step 3: Site Selection - The provider selects an appropriate site for intramuscular injection, typically the deltoid muscle in the upper arm for older children and adults, or the anterolateral thigh for infants and young children.
  • Step 4: Injection - The provider cleans the injection site with an alcohol swab to reduce the risk of infection. The vaccine is then injected intramuscularly, following standard injection techniques to minimize discomfort and ensure proper delivery of the vaccine.
  • Step 5: Post-Administration Care - After the injection, the provider monitors the patient for any immediate adverse reactions, providing guidance on potential side effects and the importance of follow-up doses if applicable.

3. Post-Procedure

Post-procedure care for the DTwP-Hib vaccine includes monitoring the patient for any immediate side effects, which may include mild fever, soreness at the injection site, or irritability. Patients and caregivers should be informed about these potential reactions and advised to seek medical attention if severe reactions occur. Additionally, it is important to schedule follow-up vaccinations as part of the immunization schedule to ensure complete protection against the diseases targeted by the vaccine. Documentation of the vaccination should be recorded in the patient's medical record, including the date of administration, vaccine lot number, and the site of injection.
Short Descr DTWP-HIB VACCINE IM
Medium Descr DTWP-HIB VACCINE FOR INTRAMUSCULAR USE
Long Descr Diphtheria, tetanus toxoids, and whole cell pertussis vaccine and Haemophilus influenzae b vaccine (DTwP-Hib), for intramuscular use
Status Code Excluded from Physician Fee Schedule by Regulation
Global Days XXX - Global Concept Does Not Apply
PC/TC Indicator (26, TC) 9 - Not Applicable
Multiple Procedures (51) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Bilateral Surgery (50) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Physician Supervisions 09 - Concept does not apply.
Assistant Surgeon (80, 82) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Co-Surgeons (62) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Team Surgery (66) 9 - Concept does not apply.
Diagnostic Imaging Family 99 - Concept Does Not Apply
APC Status Indicator Items and Services Packaged into APC Rates
Type of Service (TOS) 1 - Medical Care
Berenson-Eggers TOS (BETOS) O1G - Immunizations/Vaccinations
MUE Not applicable/unspecified.
CCS Clinical Classification 228 - Prophylactic vaccinations and inoculations
Date
Action
Notes
2016-01-01 Changed First appearance of change in codebook.
2016-01-01 Deleted Deleted
2015-07-01 Changed Description Changed
2011-01-01 Changed Short description changed.
1994-01-01 Added First appearance in code book in 1994.
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