| Περίληψη: | In this Introduction, we begin by examining the nature of ‘the
public’ and ‘public health’ and how these changed over time. We
then set out the key cross-cutting themes that this book will address
before going on to summarise the contents of the chapters. We also
reflect on what we think this book adds to our understanding of
publics and their health. The COVID-19 pandemic has thrown the
relationship between public health authorities and their publics
into sharp relief. In order to prevent the spread of the virus, public
health authorities in many countries exercised powers to severely
curtail individual liberties. The public was also called upon to
behave ‘responsibly’, whether that meant washing their hands, staying
at home or wearing a face mask. Public health experts became
public figures, as members of the public hungrily sought out data,
advice and reassurance. The publicness of public health came under
a renewed degree of scrutiny and debate.
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