After reports of emergency rooms across Canada being overwhelmed with influenza cases.
Health officials say the flu is responsible for more than 12 thousand hospitalizations annually and this year's H1N1 strain is said to be especially bad.
According to most experts, including the Porcupine Health Unit, a yearly flu vaccine is the best defense against the virus. Still, some we spoke to in the city don't think it's necessary.
"I don't usually get the flu shot, because i don't usually get the flu. I just don't see the need for it."
"No."
"How come?"
"Ahh it makes me sick every time i take it."
"I'm not sure, i guess i just don't think of going."
"I used to have it and then, because when you have the flu vaccine, you have the flu and i don't want the flu, so I'm not taking it anymore."
Although many people told us they swear by it.
"Yes i do. I get the flu vaccine and i make sure both of my children do as well."
"I don't want to take chances. i just don't."
"I believe in it. i think it's better than not taking it. it's like any vaccination."
"It's good for around work, your coworkers and stuff, so it doesn't spread around."
Some people we spoke to said they'd like to get the flu shot, but can't because of what's in it.
"No I can't. I'm allergic to eggs, therefore I can't have anything egg-grown."
Although the calendar is turning to the new year, health officials tell us it's not too late to get the flu shot. They say influenza cases are expected to peak sometime in January.
"It looks like the strain in the flu vaccine is going to be a fairly good match so we are going to get better protection than when we got last year." said Toronto pharmacist, Paul Bowman.
Last year, 302 Canadians were killed by the flu.
