Research progress of syndromic surveillance

The appearance of "new" infectious diseases,the reemergence of "old" infectious diseases,and the deliberate introduction of infectious diseases through bioterrorism has highlighted the need for improved and innovative infectious disease surveillance systems.Systems based on syndromic surveillance are being developed because of the sensitivity and timeliness.This paper reviews the concept,development,characteristics and problems faced of syndromic surveillance systems. Key words: Public health; Syndromic surveillance; Infectious diseases