Posted Friday --- February 22, 2008 --- 6:30am

"It is really a pattern of virus moving across the world, and there are lots and lots of factors that determine when the season hits. What viruses are circulating, what the immunity to those viruses are," said Dr. Sarah Van Orman who's with the University Health Services.

It may have come late this year, but the flu season is now among us.

"Right now this looks like it will be a moderate season not a terrible season," stated St. Mary's Hospital's epidemiologist Dr. William Scheckler.

But, one of the hardest hit areas of our city so far has been the University.

"Our normal level would be about one to two percent of our visits would be for the flu. Now it is about eight or nine percent of our visits," added Van Orman.

This year, a record 7300 students received vaccines. Which is up about 30 percent from previous years. But, the vaccines produced this year were not as effective as years past, due to an unexpected mutation in the virus. And, many who received vaccines will still get sick. But, it won't be as bad.

Said Scheckler, "Let's say they are only 30 or 40 percent effective this year. Those are pretty good odds compared to zero percent effective."

As the flu season progresses doctors recommend you wash your hand frequently, and keep them away from your nose and mouth. And of course get plenty of sleep and exercise.

"They seem like really basic things, but they really do make a difference," added Van Orman

But, many people would still rather be vaccinated. And if you don't like needles there is now another option called "flu-mist".

"This is an alive vaccine that was made to not cause illness and can grow in cold relatively cool environments like your nose," said Scheckler.

About two weeks ago the flu season hit southern Wisconsin. But, unfortunately, there is no way of knowing when it will end.

"It will peak when it peaks," he concluded.

If you have yet to get a shot it is still not too late to protect yourself.

And, scientists have already starting making next year's flu vaccine. And they will add the strains that they missed this year to it. But, another could always arise.