A McGill University expert says the public should simply continue taking normal precautions now that the World Health Organization has declared the first flu pandemic in 41 years.
The long-awaited pandemic is scientific confirmation a new H1N1 virus has emerged and is quickly circling the globe.
Vaccine makers are being urged to switch to H1N1 flu vaccine once they finish making seasonal flu vaccine.
But Dr. Timothy Brewer, a director with McGill University's medical school, tells CTV News the pandemic announcement is more of a public service than a cause for alarm.
"I think if you weren't concerned on Monday, you should not be concerned today," he said.
"Nothing's really changed other than trying to raise public awareness and make sure that companies and governments are doing what they need to do to be prepared for the flu season when it comes in the fall.
Precautions
Dr. Brewer once again reminds people to stay home if they're sick and to make sure to wash their hands. People shouldn't send their children to school or daycare if the kids aren't feeling well.
Mutation
The H1N1 virus is more likely to mutate the more that the virus spreads, says Dr. Brewer.
He says it's important to try and contain the virus to prevent it from spreading.
This is the first global epidemic since the Hong Kong flu of 1968.
The flu is now in 74 countries and about 140 people have died so far.
It's important to mention that ordinary flu kills about 250,000 to 500,000 people globally each year.
