Pennsylvanians who live, work or attend school within a 10-mile radius of the state’s five nuclear power plants, including the Three Mile Island Nuclear Generating Station (TMI), can acquire free potassium iodide, or KI, tablets from the state Department of Health on August 8.
When taken as directed, KI helps protect the thyroid gland against harmful radioactive iodine that may be released during a radiological emergency. Because not all radiological releases involve radioactive iodine, no one should take KI tablets unless directed to do so by state health officials or the governor.
Four 65-milligram tablets will be provided to each person. Individuals can pick up KI tablets for other family members or those who are unable to pick them up on their own. Directions on how to store the tablets and when to take them will also be provided at each location.
Anyone can take the tablets, unless they are allergic to KI. They are safe for pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding, people on thyroid medicine, children and infants. Individuals who are unsure if they should take KI should ask a health care provider.
KI tablets are also available throughout the year at county and municipal health departments or state health centers.
KI tablets will be available between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on August 8 at the following distribution sites in Dauphin County:
- Hummelstown Fire Hall, 249 E. Main St., Hummelstown
- Londonderry Township Building, 783 S. Geyers Church Road, Middletown
No appointments are necessary.
For more information, or for a complete list of distribution sites across the state, visit www.health.state.pa.us or call 1-877-PA-HEALTH (877-724-3258).