The objective for this meeting between ECDC and influenza vaccine manufacturers was to share latest information on influenza disease monitoring including severe disease, monitoring of seasonal influenza vaccination programmes in the EU and new technical developments for improved influenza vaccines.
The third annual joint influenza surveillance meeting was held in Istanbul. The meeting focused on virological and epidemiological aspects of influenza surveillance, influenza vaccination, and new developments in the field of influenza prevention and control.
In accordance with the Key Tasks, ERLI-Net laboratories should participate in external quality assurance (EQA) schemes. EQA panels are distributed by both ERLI-Net and the WHO.
The levels of influenza activity in European countries reported by EISN members during the influenza season are based on three assessments: An indicator of the overall intensity of influenza activity in the country, An indicator of the geographical spread of influenza in the country, An indicator of trend in ILI/ARI sentinel consultations in the country compared to the previous week.
The annual regional influenza surveillance meeting is for influenza surveillance focal points to be provided with an update on regional and global developments and exchange information.