> The HN51 virus is making headlines, but according to the World Health Organization, the real killer in Asia today is air pollution, which is claiming thousands of lives every month. Story
> Critics target church-owned, non-profit hospitals, saying they are making huge profits while overcharging those who cannot afford to pay for healthcare. Story
> Northern California's Santa Clara County becomes the latest municipality to sue major drug makers, alleging the prices they charge hospitals are too high. Story
> Sanofi-Aventis is touting Accomplia as the French multinational hopes to dodge the problems faced by other pharma players. Release
> Federal health officials say they are having success in their fight to protect the effectiveness of antibiotics by limiting their use in farm animals. Story
> Evidence from a trial of Panacos Pharmaceuticals' AIDS drug PA-457 shows progress in stopping the maturation of resistant strains of HIV. Story (Wall Street Journal sub. req.)
> UPMC and other big name providers in Pennsylvania continue to invest heavily in MRI equipment. Story
And Finally... Probably not a coincidence: Merck announced this morning it is bringing in public relations giant Burson Marsteller for image repair. Release