Predistribution of potassium iodide--the Tennessee experience

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Emergency Preparedness
• Radiological Protection

Background:

• Nuclear power plants pose potential radiation risks to nearby communities.
• Predistribution of thyroid-blocking agents is a key component of nuclear emergency preparedness.
• Potassium iodide (KI) can mitigate thyroid exposure to radioactive iodine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility and public acceptance of predistributing potassium iodide (KI) tablets.
• To inform residents about radiation emergency preparedness measures.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of door-to-door delivery by trained health professionals.

Main Methods:

• A pilot project involved door-to-door delivery of KI tablets to households within a 5-mile radius of the Sequoyah nuclear powerplant.
• Each household received a 14-day starter dose of 130-mg KI tablets in child-resistant packaging.
• Trained public health professionals conducted the distribution and answered resident questions.

Main Results:

• Approximately 66% of 5,591 targeted households accepted the KI tablets.
• Extensive media coverage facilitated public understanding of the project and emergency plans.
• The door-to-door distribution model proved effective in reaching a significant portion of the population.

Conclusions:

• Predistribution of KI tablets is a viable strategy for enhancing community radiation preparedness.
• Public acceptance of KI distribution is substantial when accompanied by clear communication and professional delivery.
• This initiative supports proactive measures for safeguarding public health in the event of a nuclear emergency.