Department of Health to Offer Free Potassium Iodide on Nov. 20 for Pennsylvanians who have Tablets Expiring in December 2014
The Department of Health will provide free potassium iodide, or KI, Thursday, Nov. 20, to Pennsylvanians who currently have tablets with a December 2014 expiration date who live within 10-miles of one of the state’s five nuclear power plants. The department will properly dispose of expired KI that residents bring with them to the distribution sites.
KI can help protect the thyroid gland against harmful radioactive iodine when taken as directed during radiological emergencies. Individuals should only take KI when told to do so by state health officials or the governor.
Anyone can take the tablets as long as they are not allergic to KI. They are safe for pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding, people on thyroid medicine, children and infants. Individuals who are unsure if they should take KI should ask a healthcare provider.
KI tablets are also available throughout the year at county and municipal health departments or state health centers.
Additional KI tablets are set to expire in 2015. The department will provide an update early next year.
For more information, visit www.health.state.pa.us or call 1-877-PA-HEALTH
(1-877-724-3258).
Media contact: Penny Ickes, 717-787-1783
Editor’s Note: KI tablets will be available between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Nov. 20 at the distribution sites below in Pennsylvania. No appointments are necessary.
Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station
Peach Bottom Community Center, 5 Pendyrus St., Delta
East Drumore Township Building, 925 Robert Fulton Highway, Quarryville
Three Mile Island Generating Station
Fairview Township Fire Department, 340 Lewisberry Road, New Cumberland
Hummelstown Fire Hall, 249 E. Main St., Hummelstown
Lower Swatara Township Building, 1499 Spring Garden Dr., Middletown
Manchester Township Municipal Building, 3200 Farmtrail Rd., York