Reactor accidents: iodine supplements

This editorial discusses whether stable iodine should be given to block thyroid uptake in a population at risk from radioiodine intake after a reactor incident. It is concluded that the best interests of the public would be served by the administration of a single dose of potassium iodide (or iodate) to a population at risk immediately a release of radioiodine occurs, followed by evacuation if found necessary once measurements are available. Management of contaminated personnel and people remaining in an area of significant contamination appears less certain. Continued blocking of thyroid uptake may be achieved by the use of potassium iodide 50 mg 12-hourly (or 150 mg once daily), but further research is required to establish the risks associated with long term thyroid blockade. (U.K.)