County Officials Prepare to Distribute Potassium Iodide Stockpile to Residents

BEL AIR, MD (August 15, 2007) – Members of the general public who live or work within 10 miles of Peach Bottom can acquire potassium iodide (KI) to maintain at their home or place of business by attending either of two pre-distribution sessions planned by the Harford County Health Department (HCHD).

Both sessions will be conducted at the North Harford Middle School on two Saturdays, September 22 and October 6, 2007, from 10am to 2pm.  Afterwards, new residents and individuals who previously were unable obtain KI can do so by contacting the HCHD at 410-638-8476 to arrange to obtain a supply of KI.

Potassium iodide is an over-the-counter medication used to help protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine (RAI), which might be released in the event of a radiation emergency.  In the proper dosage and administered within the medically appropriate timeframe, KI can effectively saturate the thyroid gland so that radioactive iodine cannot accumulate there, thus helping to protect the gland from acute or delayed effects from exposure to RAI.

The use of KI is indicated only in such emergencies, and to be most effective, should be taken before or shortly after exposure to RAI. The term “pre-distribution” refers to the practice of dispensing KI to be stored for potential use in the event it becomes necessary to administer it.

“This KI distribution initiative is a supplement to the County emergency plans in the event of an incident where radiation is released from Peach Bottom Power plant.  While evacuation will remain the primary strategy by which to safeguard the public, the KI will afford citizens an extra measure of protection,” explains Dr. Andrew Bernstein, Health Officer for Harford County.  

In addition, KI will be pre-distributed to schools located within 10 miles of Peach Bottom Power Plant.  “Then, if an incident were to occur while schools are in session, this would facilitate timely dispensing of KI to school children and staff,” continues Dr. Bernstein.   The schools include: Darlington Elementary School, Dublin Elementary School, North Harford Elementary School, North Harford Middle School, North Harford High School, and Harford Christian Academy.  KI also will be pre-distributed to Broadcreek Boy Scout Camp, and Hart Heritage Assisted Living Estate.

Recipients of KI previously pre-distributed in 2002, and which already has expired should discard their old medication.  The proper method of disposing of the KI is by throwing it away in the household trash for eventual removal to the local landfill.  It should not be flushed down the commode or washed down the drain.

For more information about potassium iodide distribution or use, visit the Harford County Health Department website at www.harfordcountyhealth.com or contact the HCHD directly at: 410-638-8476 or 410-838-1500.

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