The single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but vaccination against the seasonal flu does not protect against H1N1 (swine flu). The H1N1 vaccine was made available in the fall of 2009. People with the highest risk of contracting the disease are recommended to get vaccinated first.

Target groups include pregnant women, people who live with or care for children younger than 6 months of age, healthcare and emergency medical services personnel, persons between the ages of 6 months and 24 years old, and people ages of 25 through 64 years of age who are at a higher risk for H1N1 because of chronic health disorders or compromised immune systems.

Production and distribution of the vaccine continues. In the meanwhile, good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands often can still help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like the swine flu.

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