Department of Health to Offer Free Potassium Iodide on Nov. 20 for Pennsylvanians who have Tablets Expiring in December 2014
HARRISBURG,
Pa., Nov. 6, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Department of Health
will provide free potassium iodide, or KI, Thursday, Nov. 20, to
Pennsylvanians who currently have tablets with a December 2014
expiration date who live within 10-miles of one of the state's five
nuclear power plants. The department will properly dispose of expired KI
that residents bring with them to the distribution sites.
KI
can help protect the thyroid gland against harmful radioactive iodine
when taken as directed during radiological emergencies. Individuals
should only take KI when told to do so by state health officials or the
governor.
Each adult will receive four 65-milligram tablets.
Children will be given smaller doses based on their age. Individuals can
pick up KI tablets for other family members or those who are unable to
pick them up on their own. Directions detailing when to take the tablets
and how to store them will be provided with the KI.
Anyone
can take the tablets as long as they are not allergic to KI. They are
safe for pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding, people on
thyroid medicine, children and infants. Individuals who are unsure if
they should take KI should ask a healthcare provider.
KI tablets are also available throughout the year at county and municipal health departments or state health centers.
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