Between calls to get vaccinated and news reports about the virus's spread across the country, Canadians have been hearing about the flu for months. On Jan. 6, Alberta health officials confirmed that 10 people many with underlying health conditions had died from the seasonal H1N1 flu strain.

Most people know that frequent hand washing and avoiding contaminated areas and people will help reduce the risk of catching the flu. But during flu season, the virus strikes swiftly and spreads rapidly. What happens once the virus is inside your body? See the graphic below to learn more.