No one knows better the effects of panic mongering than the medical professionals of Toronto, who were forced to cope with the overblown restrictions implemented during the SARS outbreak. Avian flu's now within our borders � is Canada going to see a repeat of the SARS fiasco or have we learned from our mistakes?

The WHO has advised extreme caution with this new virus, as they did with SARS, but let's not take another ride on the epidemic rollercoaster. Should we monitor this disease cautiously to see if it in fact jumps species? Of course. But we need a stronger voice of reason to drown out the media hysterics. Canadian health authorities must stay ahead of the game to avoid further unnecessary strain on the healthcare system.

A recent trip to Asia confirmed my suspicion that the WHO has struck again with reactionary recommendations. During a stopover in Hong Kong, health workers aimed an infrared 'gun' at our foreheads to take our temperatures � a bit pointless given that fever

is a symptom of a lot of other ailments besides the flu. As the next plane we boarded prepared to land in Kuala Lumpur, the masked flight crew sprayed us (as they walked away, mind you, with canisters pointed behind them) with germicide � another recommendation by the WHO. As the mist settled, the kid two seats behind me summed up my sentiments as he screamed "Mummy, save me!" By the time we landed, the passenger cabin was ripe with fear and panic.

Armed with the lessons of past screwups and more calming voices like Dr Sheela Basrur, Ontario's new Chief Officer of Health, we can only hope that the past is not destined to repeat itself.

� Shereen Joseph