Avoiding the flu

Swine flu -- also known as H1N1 -- is causing confusion as the normal flu season approaches.

If I get my yearly flu shot will it protect me from swine flu? No.

Will I have to take another shot for the swine flu? Yes, maybe twice.

Can I get my regular flu shot now? Yes, and you should.

Can I get a swine flu shot now? No, unless you are participating in a vaccine test.

More than 30,000 Americans die each year from whatever flu strain is prevalent in any given year. Health officials say an outbreak of swine flu in the U.S. could cause as many as another 90,000 deaths. But that's a government planning estimate.

Remember the avian flu scare of a few years ago? The Bush administration, supported by Congress, stockpiled medical supplies and created plans for a pandemic that never occurred. Thanks to that planning, the nation is far better prepared for the swine flu.

The U.S. isn't alone in planning for swine flu. Other countries are also testing vaccines. China is testing a vaccine that might provide swine-flu immunity in just one shot. Australia also is testing a one-dose vaccine.

Wash your hands often. That's still the best protection.