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KI used if accident in nuke-plant zone
Terry Metcalf, a worker with the local district of the state Department of Health, fills an order of potassium iodide tablets. The department is distributing the tablets, which were provided by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, to people who live within a 10-mile radius of the Susquehanna nuclear power plant.
Clark Van Orden/The Times Leader
NANTICOKE – With residents’ current supplies of potassium iodide tablets expiring, the state Department of Health is handing out new doses of the anti-radiation drug to anyone who lives within 10 miles of a nuclear plant.
In Luzerne County, that generally includes Salem Township and the communities that surround PPL Corp.’s Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, but the department won’t “split hairs” over who’s eligible, said Jeffrey Blystone, the assistant director of the department’s Bureau of Community Health Systems.
The pills, also known by their chemical name of KI, are meant to be taken in the uncommon event of a nuclear plant accident that releases radioiodine into the air. The pills temporarily fill the user’s thyroid gland with a type of iodine that prevents the gland from taking in the radioiodine, which can damage the gland or cause cancer.
“It gives you more protection,” Blystone said, but noted that “evacuation is still the best option.”
If the traffic for the drive-through distribution Tuesday morning was any indication, many residents within the 10-mile zone will renew their supply. As the distribution began at Luzerne County Community College’s Public Safety Training building, several dozen vehicles filed through within minutes.
“We never really know what the turnout will be,” Blystone said, but noted that there are 10,000 doses on hand for the three-day distribution. “We expect a large number of the after-work population,” he said, which is why the center is remaining open into the evening.
People who stop by can get doses for their entire family, he said. The new pills will be effective until December 2014.
The KI, which he believed has no other uses, remains in the system for a few days. Though the dosage is mild, Blystone acknowledged that side effects can include sore teeth and gums, swelling in salivary glands and upset stomach.
“Because we’re talking about such a low dose here, we don’t expect any side effects,” he said.
Anyone who misses the distribution dates or employers within the 10-mile zone who want to offer employees a one-day dose should contact the state Health Department at 1-877-PAHEALTH to make arrangements.
To get the KI pills
Available daily through Thursday, from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., at the Luzerne County Community College’s Public Safety Training Institute at 1333 S. Prospect St., Nanticoke.