The University of Newcastle, Australia

Researchers from the University of Newcastle and Hunter New England Health are using the internet to track flu activity across the region to help keep medical authorities alert to potential widespread outbreaks of the virus.

Participants are asked to spend just 15 seconds each week completing an online survey asking about any symptoms that suggest they have the flu. The survey will also track the rate of illness between people vaccinated and those unvaccinated for influenza.

Researchers are particularly interested in tracking flu in large organisations. Anyone with regular access to email and the internet can join the survey. For more information go to www.flutracking.net