Influenza, also called "the flu", is a viral infection in the nose, throat and lungs. The flu may cause fever, cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle aches and tiredness. About 10% to 20% of Americans get the flu each year. Some people get very sick. Each year, about 130,000 people go to a hospital with the flu, and 20,000 people die because of the flu and complications. To avoid getting the flu, be sure to wash your hands often, cough and sneeze into the inside of your elbow (rather than into your hand), and get your flu shot. Learn more about how to keep your family well during flu season.

Report on America's Best Health Plans

In October, U.S.News & World Report and the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) unveiled the third edition of America's Best Health Plans, an annual ranking of U.S. HMOs and point-of-service plans. Plans were scored from 0 to 100 based on data collected and analyzed by the NCQA, managed care's major accrediting and standards-setting body. See the list of top health plans.

November is American Diabetes Month

Diabetes is a disease that occurs when your body doesn't make enough of a hormone called insulin, or if your body doesn't use insulin the right way. If left untreated, it may result in blindness, heart attacks, strokes, kidney failure and amputations. Only half of the people who have diabetes have been diagnosed. Find out If you have risk factors for diabetes.

Side-by-side Comparison of Candidates' Positions on Health Care

Voters have identified health care as the leading domestic issue for the 2008 presidential campaign. In particular, voters want to hear candidates' positions on reducing the cost of health care and health insurance and expanding coverage to the 47 million uninsured Americans.

The Kaiser Family Foundation has prepared a side-by-side comparison of the candidates' positions on health based on information from candidates' websites and speeches, debates and news reports. The comparison highlights candidates' positions on access to health care, financing and cost containment, and improving quality. Compare candidates' views.