The cold and flu season is here and memories of last year’s H1N1 (swine flu) scare are likely still lingering. On average, up to 20% of the population in the United States is stricken with influenza each year.

Since each cold and flu season is different in terms of types of virus, projected infections, and prevention and treatment recommendations, it’s important to be up-to-date on the latest information and news regarding the flu season. We’ve gathered five facts that will help you prepare:

H1N1 won’t be as big of a threat this year

Flu season is always serious, but there is good news this year: Health officials have reported that the swine flu (H1N1) will no longer be a major threat to the U.S. population.

After last year’s H1N1 pandemic, 59% of Americans have developed immunity towards the swine flu. This is due to persons catching the illness last year, receiving the H1N1 vaccine, and/or carrying natural antibodies that fight off the virus and those similar to it. But this still means that tens of millions of Americans can still get sick, so flu shots are being strongly recommended.

Flu and H1N1 vaccines are being combined and there will not be a shortage

This year's flu vaccine will vaccinate against the seasonal flu virus, H1N1 and two other viruses. Even better, unlike last year when people were scrambling to locate the vaccine, there will not be a shortage of flu vaccine this year. Vaccines have already been shipped out and are available to the public, with more vaccine being made every day.

Flu shots are now available: How to get one for free and who should get a flu shot

You may be able to get a free flu shot if you contact your local health department and inquire about where free vaccinations are being given. This is also the time of year that many cities and counties start holding health fairs to help people get the flu vaccine. Pharmacies, clinics, some supermarkets, and doctor offices will also be distributing the vaccine. Costs will vary at pharmacies and retailers, typically being $15-$25 per shot. In addition, many universities are offering free flu shots to students. Insurance and Medicare will cover the cost for those covered.

Health officials are recommending that anyone over the age of 6 months be vaccinated from the flu this year, unless you have an egg allergy. Last year, the hardest hit victims of the flu were young children and pregnant women. This year, senior citizens are expected to be targeted but officials have created a stronger vaccine for the elderly to help combat the flu. It is still very important that young children and pregnant women be vaccinated.

Hand sanitizer may not help prevent colds and flu

During the cold and flu season, sales of alcohol-based hand sanitizers sky rocket as people turn to them to prevent illness and the spread of germs. Not so fast, though. A recent study showed that regular use of hand sanitizer did not reduce the chances of getting a cold or the flu.

The best defense against cold and flu germs? Flu shots and getting in the habit of never touching your face, nose, mouth or eyes without washing or rinsing your hands first.

Most Tylenol and Motrin products will not be available this cold and flu season

If you’ve relied on brands like Tylenol and Motrin to ease your family’s aches and pains of the cold and flu season, you’ll be disappointed to learn that McNeil Consumer Healthcare, the manufacturer of Tylenol and Motrin, doesn’t expect the products to return to shelves until the spring.

After the massive recalls of the products, along with Benadryl and Zrytec, earlier this year, parents have been turning to generic pain relievers. That’s fine, since the American Academy of Pediatrics is encouraging parents to use generic brands. They are just as effective and cheaper, too.