Measles Vaccine given as a shot to prevent measles in children. Two doses of the vaccine are given at 9 to 12 months and 16 to 24 months of age. If a child misses the scheduled dose, it can be given till 5 years of age. Measles Vaccine is administered by a healthcare professional and should not be self-administered. It protects the child from diseases that can be caused by measles. Measles may cause serious consequences such as seizures (often associated with fever), ear infections, diarrhea, and pneumonia and rarely brain damage or even death. Like with any other injectable vaccine, there could be mild pain and redness at the injection site, low-grade fever, rash, and upper respiratory tract infection. These are usually temporary and resolve with time. However, if these side effects do not go away with time or get worse, let the doctor know. The doctor may help with ways to reduce or prevent these symptoms. To make sure the vaccine is safe for the child, before receiving the vaccine, it is important to let the doctor know if he/she has any problems with the heart, liver, or kidneys. You should also tell the doctor about all the medicines the child is taking.