Influenzanet is a system to monitor the activity of influenza-like-illness (ILI) with the aid of volunteers via the internet
Developing the framework for an epidemic forecast infrastructure.
http://www.epiwork.eu/
The Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) bundles all research-related EU initiatives.
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4444In contrast with the traditional system of sentinel networks of mainly primary care physicians coordinated by the European Influenza Surveillance Scheme (EISS), InfluenzaNet obtains its data directly from the population. This creates a fast and flexible monitoring system whose uniformity allows for direct comparison of ILI rates between countries.
Any resident of a country where InfluenzaNet is implemented can participate by completing an online application form, which contains various medical, geographic and behavioural questions. Participants are reminded weekly to report any symptoms they have experienced since their last visit. The incidence of ILI is determined on the basis of a uniform case definition.
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Influenza Epidemiology
Influenza can be directly transmitted between humans. Since 1977 there have been 3 types of influenza circulating in humans: strains of Influenza A (of types H1N1 and H3N2) and strains of influenza B. Annual seasonal epidemics occur in temperate countries, usually dominated by one of the types, although in a season all three types are often isolated.
Other species are also infected with influenza. Birds, particularly waterfowl are resevoirs of influenza. Wild birds usually display few symptoms. However, domestic poultry (e.g. chickens, turkeys) may develop symptoms and even die.
Avian Influenza cannot normally be transmitted directly to humans (although a few cases usually involving direct contact with infected poultry have occurred). The virus can be transmitted to pigs from where it may be capable of infecting humans. Humans can then transfer the virus directly to other humans and perhaps back to pigs.
Recombination between the avian and human strain can occur in pigs. This can cause significant antigenic shifts.
Taken from the CDC. The newly identified Influenza A/H1N1 virus.
Epidemics of Influenza occur seasonally (usually in winter) and affect a substantial percentage of the population worldwide. Mortality is usually highest amongst the elderly and in those with specific risk factors, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart conditions.
Influenza pandemics
| Year | Estimated Deaths | Viral Strain |
| 1580 | 8000 (Rome) | no data |
| 1729 | unknown | no data |
| 1781/2 | unknown | no data |
| 1789 | unknown | no data |
| 1830/3 | unknown | no data |
| 1889/90 | 1 million | H2N? |
| 1900 | unknown | H3N? |
| 1918/20 | 40 - 100 million | H1N1 |
| 1957/8 | >1 million | H2N2 |
| 1968/69 | >700000 | H3N2 |
