In February 2025, flu rates spiked to the highest levels seen in at least 15 years^[1], with flu outpacing COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations^[2] for the first time since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified this flu season as having “high” severity^[3] across the U.S.

The Conversation asked epidemiologist^[4] Annette Regan^[5] to explain why this flu season...

For many people, pets provide unconditional love, companionship and a sense of security. But not all human-pet relationships are beneficial, and some may contribute to stress and anxiety^[1] rather than relief.

Psychologists have been studying attachment theory^[2] for decades. This framework explains how people form emotional bonds, seek closeness and manage separation. People with secure attachment tend to feel safe in relationships,...