In April 2009, a new form of influenza A subtype H1N1 was discovered. The new flu – officially called the "pandemic H1N1/09 virus" – consists of parts of the swine, avian and human forms of the flu and is thought to have first infected humans sometime between June and November 2008.

So far, the large majority of people contracting the virus have only experienced mild to moderate symptoms. However, the flu appears to be striking certain parts of the population more than others and has disproportionately affected young adults under the age of 25 years. People who need to be hospitalized after contracting the flu tend to have one or more of the following underlying conditions: pregnancy, asthma, diabetes and heart disease.

Also, although the flu has led to death in all age groups, it has been the most fatal for those in the 25 to 49 age range – a strikingly different pattern from seasonal flu, which is most deadly for individuals 65 and older. It is still unknown what will happen when this year's seasonal flu emerges and whether or not the new H1N1 form of the virus will mutate and combine with the seasonal flu to produce yet another dangerous virus.

Therefore, it is critical that you protect yourself and others. When they become available to you, get the immunization shots for both the seasonal flu and H1N1. Because the flu is spread person to person both through the air and through surface contact, follow these three guidelines:

1. Wash your hands when they have come into contact with surfaces in public areas and after you've shaken hands with someone. Make sure your hands are clean before touching your face or eating. Here's how to wash your hands the right way.

2. Cover your coughs and sneezes to prevent spreading germs to others. Cough or sneeze into the crook of your elbow or use a tissue; afterwards, dispose of the tissue and wash your hands.

3. Stay home when you are sick to avoid coming into contact with others.

For more information about the H1N1 flu pandemic, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site.