Prevent: with citizen participation

ABSTRACT

Learning from the SARS-CoV-2 consequences is essential in order to anticipate future pandemics. Moreover, it is a compelling reason to make substantive improvements in both public health and prevention systems. However, preparedness seems a difficult task when people show pandemic fatigue or question decisions that would affect their personal sphere. To deal with such reactions, it seems important to leave open some avenues for citizens' involvement, a strategy recommended by the World Health Organization and the European Commission. Here the main argument is in favor of a civic approach of prevention (1) Preparedness to anticipate future pandemics is a duty;(2) But, so far, it is not a priority issue for the political agenda;(3) Neither is citizens' collaboration in the governance of health policy. Therefore, we could ask about the channels of communication and participation that are available to citizens, entities or stakeholders, to discuss public health issues.