We can understand the confusion some parents face as they decide whether or not to have their child take the COVID-19 vaccine.

Children between the ages of 5 and 11 are now eligible for the vaccine after the federal government’s emergency authorization for the pediatric dose of the Pfizer vaccine. We’re starting to see the vaccine become available in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties, and we’re sure it will become even more available as days and weeks pass.

So, the $64,000 question is whether or not parents will get their children vaccinated. We understand parents will have questions, and we also realize there are millions of sources of information to have those questions answered — some less reputable than others.

This is a time when the area’s pediatricians are an important source of information. Parents have trusted their chosen pediatrician to care for their children through countless illnesses, fevers, coughs, bumps and developmental milestones. Pediatricians not only know the children for whom they care, but they have firsthand knowledge of the various illnesses and viruses running through a community at any one time.

Parents, if you have questions, consult your pediatrician. You’ve chosen to put your trust in their expertise to help you keep your child healthy. If the pediatrician’s office is your first call when your child spikes an unexpected fever, it should be a first call if you have concerns over the pediatric COVID-19 vaccine.