COVID-19 is far from beaten. Vaccines may not be the ultimate panacea to haul us out of the pandemic crisis. In the future, will outbreaks of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, arrive in waves every winter? Might COVID-19 never go away? Experts at the University of California, Riverside, weigh in.

A pair of UCR studies reveal that living with a romantic partner helps people feel more socially connected during COVID-19. But no other pandemic-era social dynamic carries notable benefits, the researchers found: not your kids, not kibitzing with your bestie on FaceTime, and not your adorable-adoring pets.

The advantage of celebrating Valentine’s Day in the time of COVID? You don’t need to worry about crowds to enjoy literature, music, theatre, and more.

UC Riverside public health expert Richard Carpiano weighs in on ethical matters for vaccine distribution.