WARNING! Potassium Iodine Health Risks!

Japan Tragedy: 

Health Information for California

The recent tragedy in Japan has sparked concern among some that unsafe levels of radiation may affect Californians. I want to emphasize that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the California Department of Public Health and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have all stated that there is no risk expected to California or its residents as a result of the situation in Japan.

The California Department of Public Health and CalEMA are actively monitoring the situation in Japan and are ready to take all steps necessary to protect Californians should risks develop.

Please note: CalEMA is urging Californians not to take potassium iodide pills as a precautionary measure at this time. The pills can present a danger to people with allergies to iodine, shellfish, or who have thyroid problems. If taken inappropriately, potassium iodide can also have serious side effects including abnormal heart rhythms, nausea, vomiting, electrolyte abnormalities, and bleeding.

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