Seasonal and Pandemic Influenza Surveillance and Disease Severity

Abstract

This chapter addresses the disease burden on the US population caused by the annual influenza epidemics or pandemic and the methods of influenza surveillance used to monitor and prevent the spread of the disease. The meaningful use of electronic health records for influenza research and surveillance are discussed with a focus on variations of influenza disease severity between seasons and between individual patients. Surveillance of severe disease cases can contribute to a more effective public health preparedness and response