Large numbers of Belgians to get potassium iodide pills

Belgium Considers New Steps to Confront Nuclear Radiation Fears More people near nuclear plants could receive potassium iodide pills under government plan, WSJ, By NATALIA DROZDIAK April 28, 2016, BRUSSELS—Belgium is considering handing out potassium iodide pills to large swaths of its population to help protect them from diseases caused by radioactivity in the event of a nuclear accident, a spokeswoman at the health ministry said on Thursday.

The review comes as neighboring countries including Germany and the Netherlands have complained about the poor safety standards at Belgium’s nuclear plants.

Concerns have centered on the discovery several years ago of thousands of tiny cracks in the steel walls of pressure vessels in some of Belgium’s reactors.

Potassium iodide pills can minimize radiation risks, including preventing thyroid cancer, the most common serious outcome of a major nuclear accident.

The Belgian federal government is considering recommendations by the national health council this year to expand the radius for potassium iodide distribution to those living within 100 kilometers (60 miles) of each of the country’s nuclear plants, covering most of the population……http://www.wsj.com/articles/belgium-mulls-mass-iodide-handout-to-settle-nuclear-fears-1461862403