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Google tracks flu trends

Infection Control Weekly Monitor, November 19, 2008

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What’s the first thing people do when they feel the flu coming on?

According to Fox News, most people jump on the computer and search their symptoms on the Internet. In fact, so many people did that last year, that Google has developed “Google Flu Trends,” a tool aimed at helping the CDC figure out where and when flu activity is on the rise.

Google is using specific, undisclosed search terms to compile data, which will translate into a real-time flu tracker. Currently, the CDC relies on reports and lab tests to generate numbers, but people often do not go to the doctor when they get the flu. The Google tool will gauge flu activity by state and local areas. Depending on the number of searches entered, the tool could serve as an early warning sign to help hospitals and physicians’ offices stock up on supplies and allow people to get vaccinated before the flu reaches their community.

To access “Google Flu Trends,” go to www.google.org/flutrends.

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