Potassium Iodide (KI)

What is Potassium Iodide (KI)

KI is an over-the-counter drug that may reduce the amount of radioactive iodine absorbed by the body's thyroid gland. KI saturates a person's thyroid with iodine so that it cannot absorb any radioactive iodine. KI offers a degree of protection only to the thyroid gland and only in cases when the release contains radioactive iodine. KI does not protect any part of the body, other than the thyroid. In cases where the public may be exposed to certain types of radioactivity, state and local health officials may advise the public to take Potassium Iodide (KI) tablets.

When Should I Take (KI)?

The public should take KI during an emergency only when directed by public health officials. A TV and radio Emergency Alert System (EAS) message will be broadcast and public health officials will tell you when to take KI.

If taken before or shortly after a radiological exposure, potassium iodide blocks the thyroid gland's ability to absorb radioactive iodine. Remember that KI offers protection only to the thyroid gland and its use would be to supplement evacuation and sheltering. Evacuation and sheltering are the primary means of protection in a radiological emergency. Evacuating the area or sheltering, based on directions given by state and county officials, is the best protective action to take in the unlikely event of a radioactivity release from the Perry Nuclear Power Plant. If you evacuate without being exposed to radioactive iodine, there is no need to take KI. The use of KI by persons in the Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) is voluntary.

What If I Am Allergic to Iodine?

Potassium Iodide should not be used by people allergic to iodine. In the event of an allergic reaction, contact a physician immediately.

Where Do I Get KI?

KI would be available at Care Centers. If members of the public who live within 10 miles of the plant would prefer to have KI on hand, it can be picked up at the following locations:

Lake County General Health District
33 Mill Street
Painesville, OH 44077
(440) 350-2543
www.lcghd.org

Ashtabula County Health District
12 W. Jefferson St.
Jefferson, OH 44047
(440) 576-6010

Geauga County Health District
470 Center Street, Building #8
Chardon, OH 44024
(440) 279-1900

(02/26/08)