5 Comments

1. Robert Thomas | March 14, 2011 at 11:03 am
   

   Anyone know where to get Potassium Iodide in Tokyo, either shipped here or purchased in the city? Thanks. I don’t think the Tokyo metro govt. is distributing any.

2. metro | March 14, 2011 at 3:58 pm
   

   We don’t mean to be alarmist by this article. Potassium Iodide (KI) is not needed in Tokyo or anywhere outside the area affected. It a very cheap and easy to manufacture chemical and could be shipped in from the US or anywhere if needed in an emergency. I’ve personally seen listings on Ebay for it . I would NOT recommend buying it from a non-pharmaceutical source since you don’t know what you’re getting. Plus you shouldn’t just take KI unless absolutely needed or directed by a physician. It also only protects against radioactive iodine-131. It’s not a protect-all solution.

3. Robert Thomas | March 18, 2011 at 1:02 pm
   

   Thanks for the reply. I realize the limitations of KI and its use. But I also know that shortages are imminent once need rises. And need is rising. The nuclear experts I know back in the states recommend having it on hand. It will only protect against Iodine 131, as you stated, which has a half life of 8 days or so. Cesium, which has also been emitted by Fukushima to the local area is far more dangerous and has a 30 year half life. KI has no effect on preventing health damage from Cesium.

   Online sources of KI are popping up all over, as are Ebay sales as you stated. It might be worth posting a list of reputable sources for readers. Also, lag times in orders is a concern. I ordered from an online health source, FedEx international priority totaling over $100. It didn’t arrive within two days as it was supposed to. I caught my flight at Narita Wednesday night, so I do not know if it ever was delivered to my place in Tokyo.

   Taking iodine (whether in KI form or diluted solution) for long periods, obviously also poses health risks in itself. So that must be considered.

4. tim | April 21, 2011 at 10:45 pm
   

   what point is a site about the power plant if it is not updated often??

5. tim | April 25, 2011 at 10:55 pm
   

   if not going to update this site,why have it as an opiion on the tohoku crisis?