Even the Fukushima tragedy can’t get the NRC to change its position on KI.  In a special report released last week, the Commission once again acknowledges that KI can help prevent radioactive iodine contamination, only to qualify its endorsement by stating the obvious – KI does not protect humans from other radioisotopes or organs other than the thyroid.  It’s a little like saying water isn’t all that beneficial because while it may be critical if you’re dying of thirst, it’s not much help if you’re hungry.     What the... (more...)

Every week we get an email asking the same question – what will it take to convince the federal government to finally stockpile KI?  Unfortunately, so far, the answer appears to be nothing.  Apparently, the nuclear disaster in Japan was not the wake-up call some had thought. The same appears true with recent reports of serious problems at some of our nation’s most prominent nuclear facilities and the discovery that the government’s evacuation plans are dangerously out-of-date. Of course, everyone agrees something must be done,... (more...)

It’s been 312 days, and Secretary Sebelius is still holding hostage  a letter from thirteen members of the House of Representatives asking her to reconsider her refusal to stockpile KI for all Americans.  Even the disaster in Japan, where the government was frantic to buy KI, the resulting panic in this country, and massive orders from other countries, haven’t been enough to make the Secretary even admit the letter exits. In fairness, she has been busy.  Just this last week, she had to attend the annual convention of Reverend Al Sharpton’s... (more...)

An alarming article in the Washington Post today reveals that the United States is still not ready for a nuclear emergency caused by an accident or terrorist attack.  The Department of Homeland Security is quoted as saying, “current capabilities can only handle a few radiation injuries at any one time….there is no strategy for notifying the public in real time of recommendations on shelter or evacuation priorities.” According to the story, the U.S. Strategic National Stockpile stopped purchasing KI two years ago and designated what... (more...)