Emma Pell
Reporter

                Today, there is a lot of talk about H1N1, better known as the swine flu. Some people are concerned about whether or not they should get a vaccine for H1N1.  With vaccines now available in Kansas, it is a good time to think about getting one—or not.
                There are two types of vaccines available: the traditional shot, and a nasal spray, called FluMists. Kathleen Sebelius, Health and Human Services Secretary, recommends that everyone, especially children, get the new vaccine.  But is it really necessary?
                Sources say, even though there have been 600 deaths related to H1N1 in the U.S., 1 in 5 parents don’t consider swine flu a serious disease. Other polls show that more than a third of parents don’t want their kids vaccinated.  It is also said that younger people have a better chance of catching H1N1 than the portion of the population 65 and older. Sebelius comments, “This flu is a younger person’s flu. Kids have no immunity.” Others are concerned that the vaccine is too new, and that the swine flu doesn’t really differ that much from the regular flu.
                So, how can you stay healthy without getting the swine flu vaccine? Simple ways are best. Here are a few ways to stay healthy and keep others healthy too:

·         Cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough

·         Wash your hands before you eat, with warm water and soap

·         Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth so that germs can get in

·         Keep hand sanitizer in your pocket

·         And of course, don’t hang around with sick people!▲