For many people, coffee is the perfect way to start the day, end a meal, or help to recover after a long weekend. But while humans may tend to love the bitter flavour -- usually with some cream and sugar -- some insects find it toxic.

The illness is called Chikungunya (pronounced chick-uhn-guhn-ya) and is derived from the African Makonde language meaning "to become contorted" or "to walk bent over." As the name implies, the disease is manifested through the development of muscle and joint pains although this isn't the only symptom.

In the coming month, close to a half million Canadian snowbirds, will seek out new homes in the southern United States. While the promise of a gentler environment is obvious, there are risks with the semi-annual migration. The lack of a freezing season means a number of pests thrive throughout the year including the ever annoying mosquito.