So far there is no flu pandemic as compared to this time last year. The flu shots are ready, however there are less takers. So far it's "our usual start", with only a few isolated cases, said Dr. David Williams, associate chief medical officer of health for Ontario. That doesn't mean it's safe to let down your guard, though.
The numbers are down year to date compared to last year, when the H1N1 virus prompted one of the largest immunization campaigns in history. Even though the WHO has declared the H1N1 pandemic over in August, it does not mean it is over. The flu vaccine that is being offered this year has been designed to protect against 2 Type A viruses - H1N1 and H3N2 and 1 Type B virus.
The typical Type B virus is not as nasty as the Type A. With the former an individual can be sick for 3-5 days, and then can return to normal. The Type A virus is more serious, and those who contract it are typically bed ridden for at least 1 week and take another week to recover.
This year, if you are between 7-49, there is a nasal spray vaccine you can use to guard against the flu. This is only available via the family doctor's prescription.
