In case you missed it, the reason that experts weren't freaking out about Conficker are because some very smart virus researchers had already picked apart the Conficker.C variant and determined what it's going to do today. It's really nothing serious. Check out the F-Secure Conficker.C Q&A and SRI's more detailed Analysis of Conficker.C.
Of course, just because the world won't die by Conficker's hands doesn't mean it's okay to be lax on your security. You should still:
- Consider not using Windows :P
- Install a virus scanner and keep it up to date if you need Windows
- Always stay on top of your operating system's patches and updates