Tech Talk: How technology can predict disease outbreaks

Have you ever searched the Internet for symptoms or remedies for a suspected illness like a cold or flu? You aren't alone, according to Google. Millions of people around the world search for health information online and certain search terms tend to dominate specific seasons like sunburns in the summer and allergies in allergy season. Google has released data showing that their search engine query data can detect a rise in infectious diseases, such as the flu by tracking certain search terms associated with the flu.

Early detection of disease outbreaks can reduce their impact and resulting strain on health care systems. Because the frequency of certain search terms can predict the number of visits to health care providers with flu-like symptoms, Google can estimate the current levels of flu activity in regions around the world.

The Canadian Red Cross recommends Canadians take precautionary measures like washing your hands with soap regularly and covering your mouth when you cough to protect from the flu. For more tips on how to avoid the flu this season visit redcross.ca.