Information Concerning Potassium Iodide (KI)

The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is making potassium iodide available to residents who live or work within the 10-mile emergency planning zone (EPZ) for Surry Nuclear Power facility, which includes some York County residents.  This is a free and voluntary program to offer another level of protection should an emergency occur at Surry. 

According to the State Health Director, Robert B. Stroube, M.D., MPH and the Peninsula Health Director, Elaine Perry, M.D., MS potassium iodide is most effective if taken within a few hours before, during, or immediately after exposure.  The non-prescription medication can prevent thyroid cancer after exposure to radioactive iodide.  Children are more likely to develop thyroid cancer following exposure to radioactive iodine.  

VDH received the free medication from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission as part of a nationally recommended program.  The medication provides very limited protection in a radiological emergency and is used as a supplement to other emergency protective actions.

All residents that live within the Surry 10-mile EPZ receives a calendar annually that provides information on emergency protective actions.  The calendar has a map of the 10-mile EPZ.  The yellow pages in the telephone book are another source of information with a map and instructions on what to do in a radiological emergency.  Emergency protective actions remain the same with “evacuation” or “shelter in place” instructions depending on the extent of the emergency.  The public should take KI only when recommended by VDH and according to the recommended dosage that appears on the Recipient Information Sheet that is provided with the tablet.  Recommendations to take KI will be issued over local radio and television just like other emergency announcements.

Individuals with allergies to iodine should not take potassium iodide.  People with certain thyroid diseases, such as Grave’s disease, thyroiditis, goiter, and those with known skin diseases should consult their physicians before taking potassium iodide. 

Anyone, with questions about the use of KI should consult their family physician or the Peninsula Health District at 594-7427

Peninsula Health District Office,416 J. Clyde Morris Blvd., Newport News

 For More Information

10-mile map  

York County Emergency Management

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