The internet has been used to monitor patterns of influenza-like-illness (ILI) in the Netherlands and Belgium since 2003, in Portugal since 2005 and Italy since 2007. The UK flu survey extends this system to the UK.

In contrast with traditional systems it obtains data directly from the general public. It is regarded by scientists and public health officials as an extremely useful surveillance system for flu.

Participants report weekly on any symptoms they have experienced since their last visit, after which they receive an assessment of whether their symptoms (if they have any) are consistent with flu.

Participants receive regular updates on epidemic progress, and all the latest news and advice about flu.

Links to other internet-based flu surveillance systems

Scientific articles

http://www.eurosurveillance.org/ViewArticle.aspx?ArticleId=722

http://www.biomedcentral.com/1471-2458/6/242