Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper said on Thursday the government is doing "everything that is necessary" to respond to the swine flu outbreak, as the total confirmed cases in the country rise to 31.

Speaking at a press conference in Toronto, he said the growing outbreak is a "serious situation" but the public should rest assured that "governments around the world are responding in an appropriate and coordinated way."

He praised the "excellent co-operation" among various levels of Canadian governments, as well as among national governments around the globe. He advised Canadians to closely follow any health warnings to help prevent the flu's spread.

Meanwhile, Canada's total confirmed swine flu cases have climbed to 31, as 12 new cases reported Thursday.

Nova Scotia and Alberta each confirmed four new cases of swine flu, while British Columbia confirmed three and Ontario confirmed one. All cases are mild ones.