H!N! does have a higher mortality rate than the normal flu on a percentage basis. It also goes after people who are young in disproportionate numbers, which is something the 1917 flu also did. However, while this is a more virulent strain than normal, it is nowhere near as virulent as the 1917 flu. It is a risk that should be heeded, but it is not a reason to duct tape up your windows and doors, get lots of plants to make oxygen to breathe, and live off canned foods until the coast is clear in 6-12 months either. We are not going to see something like in the movie "12 Monkeys". Should you get the vaccine? It probably is not a bad preventative measure to consider as your chances of death from the vaccine are less than by the disease itself. Will I get the vaccine? Probably not. I can't afford it, and am terrified of needles, syringes, etc. in a way that makes a cat's aversion to water seem tame by comparison ( It took 9 Valliums to calm me down enough to get a blood test last time. I can pass out from merely discussing anything that involves a needle.) If I could get the nasal spray vaccine for free, I would do it because I KNOW I am going to get it. I deal with the public every day and I WILL come in contact with it enough to contract it.