As someone in the medical field, I will confirm that you are correct: the flu shot is much less effective this year than in years past. The flu shot is cultivated using eggs, and it takes as long as 6 months to produce. Every year, scientists must take their best educated guess as to which strain will be most prevalent, and design the vaccine to guard against it.
Unfortunately, nobody can predict the future. In the case of this year's strain, they did, in fact, miss the mark. And, since it takes so long to make the vaccine, there is no way to make a new one in time if it turns out to be ineffective. However, it is still a good idea to get the shot every year, as it does afford some level of protection. This year has turned out to be one of the worst flu seasons on record, even harking back to the great Spanish Flu epidemic.
All I can say is, I hope you get better soon! There may be no way to guarantee you won't get sick, but some basic housekeeping tips can help. Wash hands often. Keep hand sanitizer close. Clean community surfaces often. Avoid touching your face at all costs without cleaning your hands first.
Bacteria and viruses stick best to moist surfaces, so keep your nose and lips dry as possible in public (to avoid nosebleeds, and cracked lips, use saline spray, and lip balm when at home to repair/prevent the damage this may otherwise cause). If any family member becomes infected, get the dr to write Tamiflu for everybody, as it can be used to not only treat the flu, but prevent healthy people from contracting it as well. Nothing is a guarantee, but constant vigilance can be a great preventive measure.
Stay safe and healthy everyone!
