RALEIGH, N.C. — Elmo may be best known for his role on Sesame Street, but in a new public service announcement by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Ad Council, he’s just received his first COVID-19 vaccine. Elmo’s father describes how proud he is of Elmo and explains that while this wasn’t an easy choice, it was the best move for their family. You can watch the video here. 

Just like Elmo, new Ad Council research found 52% of all parents have not yet firmly made up their minds about getting their children under 5 vaccinated. They’re unsure about the efficacy, which vaccine to choose and the side effects that could come.

The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recently recommended two COVID-19 vaccines: one for children ages 6 months to 4 years and one for ages 6 months to 5 years.

Families of children under 5 may choose either the two-dose Moderna vaccine or the three-dose Pfizer BioNTech vaccine. But as proven through the research, many families aren’t sure which of either their child should get.

American Academy of Pediatrics President Dr. Moira Szilagyi says side effects are a concern for many parents. But she says they are no different than what adults see. In the end, Szilagyi says side effects are far less impactful than the effects of COVID-19 and can help protect not only a child but the entire family.

Szilagyi says vaccination is a vital step to protecting kids and their families against the highly contagious virus and its variants. The AAP reports in 2022 alone, there have been nearly 5.6 million reported cases of COVID-19 among children nationwide. Hundreds have died, and more will wind up in the hospital as the year goes on. She hopes its new It’s Up to You Campaign only sheds light on the need for vaccination in kids and helps answer any questions families have during this confusing and anxious time.

Parents with questions about COVID-19 vaccines should speak to their pediatricians and visit Get Vaccine Answers and Heathy Children for the latest information that can help them make the right choice for their families.