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Flu season is creeping up on us, and recent headlines declaring a shortage of flu shots have many people worried. After its license was suspended, the London-based Chiron Corp. announced in early October it will not provide its Fluvirin vaccine this year. This announcement cut the U.S. flu shot supply from an anticipated 100 million vaccines almost in half, down to 54 million.

Officials urge people not to panic, as there should be enough shots for people who need them. But who needs a flu shot, and who should forego the vaccine? How can you prevent catching ill if you miss out on the shot? How can you make a quick recovery if you do get sick? Find out.

• Do I need the vaccine?
The flu is caused by the influenza virus and generally affects between 5 percent and 20 percent of U.S. residents each year.

Due to the shortage, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends only people in high-risk groups seek the vaccine.

These include infants between six months and 23 months, and seniors older than 65. Women who will be pregnant during flu season should receive the vaccine. Also at risk are children over 2 or adults with chronic diseases such as heart or lung disorders, kidney disease, or metabolic disease, or anyone else with a compromised immune system or who will be in contact with high-risk groups.

The CDC recommends all others should forego the shot to assure an ample supply for those who need it.

• I need the vaccine. Where do I go?
Check with your local health department, or use the locator on The American Lung Association Web site to find clinics with the vaccine. Also, look for advertisements at local pharmacies, grocery stores, or community centers.

• I'm not considered "high-risk." How do I avoid getting sick?
First, wash your hands ... a lot. According to WebMD, when you can't get to a sink, rubbing your hands together vigorously for at least a minute will also help break up germs. Another option is to keep a pocket-sized container of hand sanitizer with you.

Avoid touching your face, as this provides a perfect point of entry for the virus. Also, drinking lots of fluids now will help build up your immunity, but avoid drinks with caffeine, which will dehydrate you. Getting some fresh air during the day will help you avoid germs, especially if you are cooped up in a building with people who may be sick. An outdoor walk does double-duty, because as with most other ailments, a great flu prevention technique is aerobic excercise. Lastly, cut back on smoking and drinking alcohol, which both lower the immune system's ability to fight disease.

• I don't feel so good. Now what?
Despite your best efforts to stay healthy, you feel a fever coming on, your muscles ache, and before you know it, you have a full-blown case of the flu. It usually takes about a week for the flu to clear your system. While you cannot flush out the flu with antibiotics, you can relieve your symptoms and make that time a little more bearable.

First, listen to your mother: eat your chicken soup. Besides evoking the comforts of childhood, doctors and researchers have discovered health benefits to eating chicken soup while sick. While you're at it, stay home and rest whenever possible, which will conserve your energy and keep others from catching ill. Keep drinking liquids, and continue to avoid tobacco and alcohol. Lastly, medicines cannot cure the flu, but certain products may help ease the symptoms. Over-the-counter medicine can help with aches and coughing, and your doctor may be able to prescribe medication for symptoms in more severe cases.

Written by Lindsay Taulbee

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