KI tablets available for all area residents and businesses located near nuclear generating stations

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region Health Department is reminding all residents living within 10 kilometres of the Pickering or Darlington nuclear generating stations to ensure they have a supply of potassium iodide (KI) tablets. These tablets are crucial in reducing the risk of thyroid cancer in the unlikely event of a radioactive iodine release.

KI is a salt of stable iodine that helps protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine. By taking KI tablets, residents can effectively block the uptake of radioactive iodine, significantly reducing the risk of thyroid cancer in the event of a nuclear accident. Ontario Power Generation indicates that a serious nuclear accident is extremely unlikely and would take many hours and days to unfold.

“Ensuring that our community is prepared for any emergency is our top priority," says Anthony DiPietro, Director, Health Protection with Durham Region Health Department. "Having a supply of KI tablets on hand is a simple yet effective measure to protect your health in the highly unlikely event of a nuclear accident. We encourage all residents within the designated area to take advantage of this free resource."

Residents should only take KI tablets when instructed by the Chief Medical Officer of Health during a nuclear emergency. Durham Region Health Department will provide clear guidance on when and how to take the tablets. Specific dosages are provided for different age groups including instructions for pregnant or breastfeeding persons. KI tablets are generally safe with low risk of side effects; however, individuals with thyroid disorders should consult their health care provider.

A limited supply of KI tablets is available free of charge at some local pharmacies. Durham Region Health Department works in partnership with the following pharmacies to help with local distribution:

• Bay Ridges Pharmacy, 1794 Liverpool Rd., Pickering
• Pickering Medical Pharmacy, 1885 Glenanna Rd., Pickering
• Liverpool Pharmacy, 725 Krosno Blvd., Pickering
• Global Drug Mart Remedy’s Rx, 130 Waverly Rd., Bowmanville
• Courtice Pharmasave, 2727 Courtice Rd., Courtice

For more information or to order a free supply of KI tablets online visit preparetobesafe.ca or call the Durham Health Connection Line at 905-668-2020 or 1-800-841-2729.

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For more information, please contact the Health Department.