Influenzanet is a system to monitor the activity of influenza-like-illness (ILI) with the aid of volunteers via the internet

http://www.influenzanet.eu/

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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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Participating countries and volunteers:

The Netherlands 20823
Belgium 7247
Portugal 1980
Italy 4137
Great Britain 5520
Sweden 2654
Germany 82
Austria 10
Switzerland 6
France 4444
InfluenzaNet is a system to monitor the activity of influenza-like-illness (ILI) with the aid of volunteers via the internet. It has been operational in The Netherlands and Belgium (since 2003), Portugal (since 2005) and Italy (since 2008), and the current objective is to implement InfluenzaNet in more European countries.

In 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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Worried about your symptoms?

The response that you receive after completing the symptom questionnaire are conditions that are consistent with your symptoms. It is not perfectly accurate, and it is not a diagnosis. We only ask about a limited set of symptoms - if you have other symptoms, or you are at all worried, we recommend that you contact your doctor. 

Reduce the risk of influenza transmission

Follow good hygiene practices

  • Carry tissues with you
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a clean tissue every time you sneeze or cough
  • Throw used tissues away
  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and hot water

If you have influenza symptoms

  • Stay at home
  • Drink plenty of liquids
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Over-the-counter drugs are fine (although it's advisable to consult your GP)
  • Aspirin should not be given to children

If you are worried...

The flusurvey is run by scientists interested in understanding the spread of flu. The flusurvey gives users an approximate assessment of their symptoms, but it is not a diagnosis. If you are worried about your or someone else's symptoms, get in touch with your GP or the NHS.

  • Phone your GP
  • In England: consult NHS Direct online or on 0845 46 47
  • In Scotland: consult NHS 24 online or on 08454 24 24 24
  • In Wales: consult NHS Direct Wales online or on 0845 46 47
  • In Northern Ireland: consult NHS NI or NI direct.