(The New York Times News Service) -- Swine flu. Regular flu. Even before flu season kicks into high gear, it's hard to keep track of what's out there, and who needs which vaccines. We talked to experts about some common questions:

What can I get vaccinated for, and how soon?

You can roll up your sleeves right now for the seasonal flu shot, which is available in many drugstores, doctors' offices and county health departments. It was released early this year.

An immunization for the swine flu still is being tested.

Government officials expect the swine flu vaccine two shots likely will be required, although Chinese researchers say they've come up with a one-shot vaccine to arrive in mid October.

All I hear about is swine flu, also called the H1N1 virus. Why should I care about seasonal flu, too?

Most years, seasonal flu doesn't get the attention it deserves.

It contributes to 36,000 deaths and 200,000 hospitalizations every year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

H1N1 is a new flu virus. So far, most people who get it have been about as miserable as those with seasonal flu. But it's still unpredictable. Certain high-risk groups, such as pregnant women, have greater chances of being hospitalized from swine flu than the general population.

Could I get sick with swine flu and seasonal flu?

Yes. And the CDC says the seasonal flu vaccine will not protect against the swine flu and vice versa. Both immunizations are needed, especially for people at high risk for complications.

Who is at high risk of becoming really ill from swine flu and seasonal flu?

So far, the flu strains aren't posing the same dangers to all.

Younger people appear more vulnerable to swine flu, while older adults need to worry more about seasonal flu.

High-priority groups for each vaccine include:

Seasonal flu: Adults ages 50 or older; pregnant women; children ages 6 months to 19 years; anyone who has chronic health conditions.

Swine flu: Pregnant women, people who care for children younger than 6 months; youth ages 6 months through 24 years; adults ages 25 through 64 years who have chronic health problems.

Are more people going to get the seasonal flu shot? Do I need to worry about a shortage?

Demand for the seasonal flu vaccine this year is expected to be higher, but there appears to be plenty to go around.

I want the seasonal flu shot. Where do I find it?

Check with your doctor's office. The shot, which is often covered by insurance, is also widely available through public health clinics and neighborhood drugstores, including:

Walgreens: Beginning Tuesday through the end of the month, you can walk into any Walgreens clinic or pharmacy between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. and get a seasonal flu shot. No appointments are necessary.

Shots are available outside those hours, and throughout flu season, but call ahead to make sure someone's on duty who can administer it. The cost is $24.99.

CVS: Seasonal flu shots are available at MinuteClinic locations inside certain stores. Beginning Sept. 15, the company will hold flu shot clinic events in many locations. Check availability at 1-888-Flu-Shot or cvs.com. The cost is $30.

What are side effects of the seasonal flu shot?

The viruses in the flu shot are killed, or inactivated, so you can't get the flu from the shot. But you may experience minor side effects, such as soreness or swelling where the shot was given, low fever and aches.

Who shouldn't get the seasonal flu shot?

People with a severe allergy to chicken eggs should not get vaccinated without consulting a physician. Don't vaccinate infants younger than 6 months. Don't get it if you're already sick. Wait until you feel better.

Copyright 2009 The New York Times News Service. All rights reserved.