While older people are typically hit the hardest by the seasonal flu, the 2009 H1N1 flu has severely impacted younger Americans, including young adults under age 25 who were otherwise healthy. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that among people under age 18, there were over 1,000 deaths, 71,000 hospitalizations, and a total of 16 million cases of H1N1 flu between mid-April and November 14, 2009.

HHS also released an online video on YouTube and www.Flu that features Secretary Sebelius getting the H1N1 vaccine and urging Americans to do the same. With more than 110 million doses of the 2009 H1N1 vaccine now available, all Americans are encouraged to get vaccinated and protect themselves and their loved ones during flu season, which typically lasts from October until May.