flyingcracker

We like patterns. Patterns in nature such as this seashell, patterns in software, patterns in human behavior. So Google's new Flu Trends page is quite interesting to us.  Crested Butte is a resort town, catering to skiers, hunters, bikers, boaters, outdoor lovers and tourists of every type. Perhaps partly as a result of this high tourist traffic we have our fair share of influenza cases every year. Maybe this year when we notice a rising trend on the Flu Trends page we'll work extra-hard to keep germs at bay.

Or maybe not.

Nevertheless this is a fascinating, non-invasive, apparently accurate and speedy method for following the spread and incidence of this contagious respiratory illness. A very cool, sideways-thinking use of technology.