My wife and I had "the flu" back in Jan-Feb of '81 and it was murder. Of course, it was a different strain than H1N1 but it knocked us both on our butts for about 2 weeks. I've never been as sick since then.
That being said, I've never taken a flu shot and don't plan on taking this one unless my doc highly recommends it. I think Big is right - the media whips everyone into a frenzy and then momentum takes over from there. If you are at risk due to poor health, age, etc. by all means talk to your doc and get the shot if you feel you need it. As for me and my wife (she's an RN BTW) we'll pass on this one for now.