Potassium Iodide Pills Aren't Needed Now, Officials Say

State officials are warning that taking potassium iodide pills cans cause “undue health effects” like dizziness and vomiting, and there is no need to take the pills, which can protect against one form of radiation exposure.

“The safety of all Californians is our highest priority, and we are in constant contact with the federal agencies responsible for monitoring radiation levels across the West Coast,” said Interim Director of California Public Health, Dr. Howard Baker and the acting head of the California Emergency Management Agency, Mike Dayton, in a joint statement this week.

“We want to emphasize that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission 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. We are actively monitoring the situation in Japan and are ready to take all steps necessary to protect Californians should risks develop.”

Baker and Dayton said taking potassium iodide can present a danger to people with allergies to iodine and shellfish. It may also harm people with thyroid problems. Taken in inappropriate does it can cause vomiting, bleeding, nausea and abnormal heart rhythms.

Robin Cox, a spokeswoman for Solano County Public Health, said local officials are getting their information from the state.

You can go to this website to learn about frequently asked questions about radiation.