At the onset of a new flu strain, there won’t be effective vaccinations to protect us. It generally takes 6-12 months after a pandemic begins to develop and produce an effective flu vaccination.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend as a precaution that everyone, particularly those in high risk groups, gets vaccinated against the common strains of flu. The current flu vaccine is up to 90% effective in preventing the common flu and would help maintain a stronger immune system in the event the new strain of flu emerges.
Additionally, your doctor may recommend that you begin taking an antiviral medication if you become exposed to the flu. This doesn’t prevent the flu, but it helps your body fight the infection so that your flu symptoms may be less severe.