LAKE COUNTY — As a result of the recent nuclear power plant concerns in Japan resulting from last week”s earthquake and tsunami, Lake County Health Services received numerous calls from the public. Concerned over the potential for released radiation to cause contamination and exposure remotely, callers have specifically contemplated use of oral potassium iodide for its protective effects from radioactive iodine exposure.
Health Officials currently advise against taking these steps. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has stated that, at present, Japan”s nuclear emergency presents no danger to California. California Department of Public Health”s radiological health branch has radioactivity monitoring systems in place for the air, water and food supply.
Although California does stockpile emergency supplies, including potassium iodide (KI) tablets in regions around nuclear power plants, they are not recommended at this time. Potassium iodide can pose health risks to certain people, such as those with allergies to iodine, shellfish, or who have thyroid problems. Dosages can vary and should be only taken as advised by a medical professional.
California has a plan for response to radiological emergencies called the Nuclear Emergency Response Plan www.cdph.ca.gov/HealthInfo/environhealth/Documents/NERP/NERP.pdf). Lake County Health Services has public health emergency plans that coordinate with California Department of Public Health and include procedures for the distribution of “medical countermeasures” when needed.
According to Lake County Health Officer, Dr. Karen Tait, the decision to use medical countermeasures is one that must balance risk and benefit. “As long as we are reassured that there is no danger from the radiation releases in Japan, we could do more harm than good by taking potassium iodide, especially in people who have risks for adverse effects.”
Lake County Health Services and other local agencies continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as needed.
For more information about radiation emergencies, visit http://emergency.cdc.gov/radiation/?s_cid=ccu031411_004.
