Security preparedness - contingency plans

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Radioactive iodine

• Radioactive iodine can be released into the body by inhaling radioactive particles or ingesting radioactively-mediated food.

• Radioiodine accumulates mainly in the thyroid gland and may cause cell damage to thyroid tissue, mainly in younger people.

• Iodine (potassium iodide) prophylaxis can protect thyroid cells from damage from radioactive iodine.

• However, the medicine does not protect the body from the effects of radioactive iodine or other types of radiation.

Being inside is the main precaution against the emission of radiation

• If there is a danger from radiation, consideration should be given to evacuation from the area in accordance with government guidelines.

• If evacuation is impossible, being inside is the primary precaution to reduce radiation exposure.

• Taking iodine tablets is only an additional measure to being inside.

• Always follow instructions from the government.

Iodine tablet dosage for different age groups

* To protect the child
** Iodine treatment for 40 years and older (non-pregnant) is of low benefit. People of that age have a much lower risk of developing thyroid cancer than younger people, and they have a higher risk of side effects of iodine treatment.

When should I start taking iodine tablets?

• Take the medicine as soon as you know it is imminent (within a day before exposure) or as quickly as possible after the contamination has been detected.

• Initiation is not recommended if exposure is more than 8 hours from radioactive contamination of the area, delaying treatment of radioiodine from the thyroid gland.

How long should I take iodine tablets?

• In most cases, a single dose is sufficient. The recommended daily dose is taken in one go.

• If it is not possible to escape the radioactive area, daily intake of the drug is recommended, but not for children <1 month old or pregnant/lactating persons.
  
  NOTE: Only take the medicine according to instructions given by the authorities in case of an imminent emergency.

Side effects

• Adverse reactions to potassium iodide are rare, mainly nausea, stomach discomfort, and transient skin rashes.

Contraindications

• Iodine tablets are not recommended for thyroidectomy patients.

• People with known iodine allergies should avoid taking the medicine.

• People with skin disease dermatitis herpetiformis or vascular disease hypocomplementemia vasculitis should avoid taking this medicine.

• People who use iodine-containing medications, such as medications for thyroid disease, lithium, and anti-hypertensives from the classes of ACE inhibitors or potassium-sparing diuretics, should consult their doctor about the use of the medication.

Monitoring of the use of potassium iodide

• Individuals who are exposed to radioiodine need monitoring for radiation exposure, depending on the circumstances.

• The same applies to children considered at risk of radioactive contamination during pregnancy.

Treatment of iodine tablets

• Potassium iodide may be taken in tablet or dissolved form. The tablets are less likely to cause stomach problems than dissolved tablets.

• Store the tablets in packages in a dry and cool place. The shelf life is long, so there is no need to throw away expired tablets that have been stored under the right conditions.

WHO – Iodine thyroid blocking: Guidelines for use in planning and responding to radiological and nuclear emergencies