What is it for?
In a nuclear reactor accident, radioactive iodine is released; it can cause thyroid cancer/disease, and mental retardation in children of exposed pregnant women. Children and infants, including the unborn, are most vulnerable. KI blocks the thyroid with a harmless form of iodine.
KI must be taken before or shortly after exposure – within six hours. It does not protect against other harmful radioactive releases or other potential health effects, just as polio vaccines do not protect against cancer – that’s no reason not to get it. One dose of KI protects for 24- hours.
KI is FDA approved and stockpiled around the world. Adverse reactions are possible for those who are allergic to iodine; if allergic to iodine (shellfish or table salt) check with your doctor.
What’s the shelf life?
FDA extended shelf life purchased in 2002 from 5 to 7 years.
Where do I get it?
KI is stockpiled for the public in Duxbury Public Schools; participating private schools and daycare centers; Duxbury’s emergency shelters; and, our Emergency Reception Center in Braintree. Check your community’s policy.
To protect your family, you should have your own supply at home.
Some local Boards of Health, such as Duxbury, have KI. Check your community, or order it over the internet/phone/mail – it is only $10.00 for a packet of 14.
The two FDA approved manufacturers that supply U.S. Government:
ANBEX, Inc. – IOSAT Tablets
ANBEX, Inc., PMB 284 35246
U.S. Highway, 19 N. Palm Harbor, FL 34684
866-463-6754
http://www.anbex.com
ThyroidShield – Liquid KI
http://www.thyroshield.com
For more information contact:
Massachusetts Department of Public Health
Radiation Control Program
617-242-3035
http://www.state.ma.us/dph/rcp
