An analysis of data collected by EISS during the past five winters (1999-2004) reveals that there is a possible west-east spread of influenza across Europe. More detailed mapping analyses are needed to confirm this finding.

The analysis also found that the clinical sentinel reports collected by EISS are a valid indicator of influenza activity and that, for Europe as a whole, increased influenza activity lasts for 10-22 weeks (2-5 months) each season.

The long period of increased influenza activity and the possibility of a west-east spread may have important consequences for influenza pandemic planning in Europe. For example, these findings could help with the planning and efficient allocation of resources (e.g. antivirals and vaccines) in Europe before and during a pandemic.

Poster presented at the Ninth European Programme for Intervention Epidemiology Training (EPIET) Scientific Seminar, Mahón, Minorca, Spain (14-16 October 2004) (JP&AM).

eiss_epiet_poster_oct_2004.pdf