It is time to get the flu shot and this is the first time almost everyone is being urged to get vaccinated. Because of last year's H1N1 swine flu pandemic and because infections peaked faster than the vaccine could be produced, there was a shortage. For this flu season the supply is in abundance with one shot giving protection not only for the swine flu (different strain), but two other influenza. It is already in a drugstore near you.

As stated earlier everyone should get the shot yearly except babies younger than six months and anyone with severe allergies to eggs. Anyone can get the flu, even if you are healthy, and it can still kill you! Those that are most vulnerable are people 65 and older, babies, and people with heart or lung problems. Even if you had the swine flu shot last year, along with the regular flu shot, you must still get the one shot variety this year. There is also a new high dose shot for people 65 and older which is going to be tracked to see if it actually produces less illness. Until proven you may choose either option. Most people will need just one shot except children under 9, if they are getting it for the first time. They will need a total of two, one month apart in order to prime their immune system. Also children who got their first doses last year, one of the swine flu and one of the seasonal flu, will need two doses this year, a month apart.

Some people may want the nasal spray vaccine. Flu Mist which is what the nasal form is called is for people 2 to 49 who are healthy, not pregnant, and have no underlying health issues.

It is also very important for health care workers and care givers of infants and the elderly to be vaccinated, as they can easily infect the most vulnerable.

There is plenty of vaccine available, so get your shot now as it takes about two weeks to become protected and the flu season generally starts around November. The vaccine is safe, so make an appointment today and you will have protection through the entire flu season.