Flu vaccinations for the 2008-2009 flu season are now available.

If a flu pandemic similar to the one in 1918 hit today, is it estimated about 62 million people would likely die.

The annual flu season begins in October and can continue until May. Every year, between five percent and 20 percent of the U.S. population gets the flu. That means at least 15 million Americans (and as many as 60 million) get sick from the flu every year, with more than 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths annually.

October and November are the best months to get vaccinated, but the flu is still circulating in January and February, and sometimes even as late as May.

The Centers for Disease Control and Preven tion recommends that certain people, including very young children, the elderly and people living with illnesses that affect the immune system get vaccinated against the flu. For a complete list of those who are most at risk, visit www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/ keyfacts.htm.