Flu Season is Far From Over 
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As of November 9, 2009, H1N1 influenza activity is at its highest point so far this season in Ontario.  Some medical authorities (like Dr. Richard Schabas, the Medical Officer of Health of Prince Edward and Hastings Counties in Ontario) have suggested that it’s too late in this second wave of spread of H1N1 flu for the H1N1 flu shot to make a difference in protecting people.  The Ontario Ministry of Health disagrees – to paraphrase Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Arlene King, the H1N1 flu virus is likely to continue to circulate throughout this flu season, so it’s not too late to get the shot. 
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But there may be another good reason to get the H1N1 flu shot, even if you can only get it in December or even later.  According to Microbiologist and Infectious Disease specialist Dr. Allison McGeer of Mt. Sinai Hospital in Toronto, pandemic strains of influenza have historically circulated in three major waves (or so it has gone during the last three flu pandemics).  So that third wave of H1N1 flu, if it does happen this season, would be expected in the spring of 2010.  Therefore Dr. McGeer argues that it would be prudent to get the H1N1 flu shot to not only protect yourself from the current second wave of H1N1 flu activity, but also to keep you healthy if a third wave of H1N1 flu shows up. 
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The bottom line is that the H1N1 flu shot is a safe and effective vaccination according to the current evidence, and everyone over the age of 6 months should consider getting the shot.  And to get full protection from the flu this season, remember that you’ll need two shots – the H1N1 shot and the usual seasonal flu shot. 
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Dr. Karl’s Take Home Message:
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1.  H1N1 flu activity is at its highest point so far this season, but it’s not too late to get vaccinated with the H1N1 shot when it becomes available for you
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2. Getting your H1N1 flu shot can help protect you from a possible third wave of H1N1 flu in the spring
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3. To be completely protected from influenza, you’re going to need 2 shots this season – the H1N1 flu shot AND the seasonal flu shot, because we still expect to see both circulating in the community  
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