Most of Canada and parts of the United States has been gripped in a cold snap that has seen temperatures dip below -40ºC in some places. While we may have little enjoyment from this forecast, in terms of germs and pests, this may actually be good news.

Hollywood is not the only place with an increasing their number of sequels. While returning health villains, like West Nile Virus and "Swine Flu 2" continue to represent only a minority of worldwide infections, the future is looking rather glum. There are certain to be more germs that will re-emerge and send us all into a frenzy worthy of a blockbuster's opening day weekend.

By: Jackie Davis Good news, cottagers: 2011 was packed with research and technology breakthroughs that may, one day, help in the battle against...