Did we not know that the big bug would hit? Or did we? Did our trusted officials just kick the can down the road? Or does the problem lie with the general public – and their unwillingness to listen to expert opinion and information? This week’s episode of Contakt World dives into the hot button issues of race, misinformation systems, pandemic plans and the politics of public health – specifically, through the lens of E. Oscar Alleyne, DrPH, MPH, epidemiologist and Chief of Programs and Services for NACCHO, The National Association of County and City Health Officials. Join our hosts Justin Beck, Catherine Delcin and Deepti Pahwa, as they speak with Alleyne, and discuss the challenges faced by public health organizations, epidemiologists and elected officials. As always, we’ll talk about how to help our local health departments – and encourage innovation and technology integration – all while remaining empathetic, plus keeping an eye toward health equity for all.