March 17, 2011 01:49 AM UTC

I Don't Trust The Source

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• by: MADCO

Colorado Dept of Public Health and Environment put this out earlier today.  I got it from the County Sheriff’s dept.  I’d have been more inclined to trust the CDPHE

Are there really a significant number of Coloradans panicking about the potential for radiation exposure?

http://www.cdphe.state.co.us/e…

March 16, 2011

FAQs: Japanese Nuclear Power Plant Concerns

Q. What is the impact of the event in Japan on people in the

United States?

A. At this time, there is no indication that materials from the incidents in Japan have the potential to have any significant radiological effect on the United States.

Q. What’s the risk for Colorado from the current nuclear power emergency in Japan?

A. At present, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) says Japan’s nuclear emergency presents no danger to the United States. The NRC is involved in the Japan emergency both at home and in Japan.

Q. What are you doing to assess the risk?

A. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment is monitoring the situation closely in conjunction with many state and federal partners. The department will continue to follow the effects of the damaged nuclear power plants as long as there are potential concerns. The department will share verified information through its website and Facebook pages as it becomes available.

Q. Does Colorado have a plan in place to respond to a radiological emergency?

A. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment works closely with the Colorado Division of Emergency Management and other state agencies in all emergencies.

Q. Should I be taking potassium iodide (KI) to protect myself?

A. No. Potassium iodide (KI) tablets are not recommended at this time, and can present a danger to people with allergies to iodine, shellfish or who have thyroid problems. Dosages can vary and should only be taken as advised by a medical professional. Potassium iodide, or KI, may have side effects. The possible side effects are related to the dose that you take and your health condition. Using potassium iodide when it is unnecessary could cause intestinal upset (vomiting, nausea and diarrhea), rashes, allergic reactions, soreness of teeth and gums, and inflammation of the salivary glands. Pregnant women and the developing fetus are particularly sensitive to the health risks of taking potassium iodide because all forms of iodine cross the placenta. For example, newborn infants (less than 1 month old) who receive unnecessary doses of potassium iodide are at particular risk for developing a condition known as hypothyroidism (thyroid hormone levels that are too low). If not treated, hypothyroidism can cause brain damage. Adults older than 40 years have a greater chance of having allergic reactions to potassium iodide. Colorado has no nuclear power plants. If it ever would become necessary for Coloradans to take potassium iodide, the federal government’s Strategic National Stockpile keeps supplies of KI and can deliver emergency equipment and supplies within 12 hours. Potassium iodide may be distributed in other states that have nuclear power plants.