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NEGAUNEE TOWNSHIP -- The Centers for Disease Control has stated that flu season is underway.

With all the talk about the new H1N1 vaccine, many people are confused about what shot they should be getting.  Currently, the H1N1 vaccine isn't available and shouldn't be until at least the middle of October, and the date of release isn't the only uncertainty with the vaccine.

"One other uncertainty at this time is, initially it was felt that the novel H1N1 vaccine would require a series of two injections.  There have been recent reports based on the current trials of looking at the safety of the vaccine indicating that adequate immunity seems to be developing for a number of people after a single vaccine," explained Dr. Kevin Piggott, the Medical Director from the Marquette County Health Department.

Despite how many shots it takes to prevent swine flu, there are differences between who is at the higher risk for H1N1 and the seasonal flu.

"H1N1 infects and hospitalizes those ages 0-24 years the most and those 65 and more the least, so therein lies the confusion," said Marquette County Health Officer Fred Benzie.

And while the H1N1 vaccine isn't ready yet, the seasonal flu shot is and it's encouraged that everyone get it.  But once again, special groups are more at risk.

"Traditionally we're looking for seasonal flu vaccine is our older population, and so from 50 years and above we encourage them, people are younger than that have any additional medical problems- again cardiovascular problems, pulmonary problems, asthma, diabetes," Piggott said.

While it's best to get the flu shot as early as possible, flu season runs throughout the entire winter, so shots will be available for the next few months.