KI Distribution Letter to Community Members
Vermont Department of Health
Brattleboro District Office
Date: May 2007
Dear Community Member:
As part of Vermont’s continuing emergency preparedness effort, we are again making available one free dose of potassium iodide to each person who lives or works in the towns of Brattleboro, Dummerston, Guilford, Halifax, Marlboro and Vernon.
One of the contaminants that could be released in a nuclear accident or similar event is radioactive iodine, which can increase your risk for thyroid cancer. Potassium iodide is a drug that, taken in an appropriate and timely dosage, can block exposure to radioactive iodine.
This is our second round of distributions and participation is voluntary. If you live or work in Brattleboro, Dummerston, Guilford, Halifax, Marlboro or Vernon, you may choose to receive a single dose. If you are a parent or guardian, you may also receive a dose for each child in your family. Potassium iodide is especially important for your child’s protection.
With this letter you will find a fact sheet on potassium iodide and an application form. We have tried to simplify the process for your convenience. To receive your supply of potassium iodide, fill out the form and use the enclosed envelope to return it to the Vermont Department of Health. Your supply of potassium iodide will then be mailed to you. If you choose, you may pick up your potassium iodide at the Health Department office in Brattleboro or at your local participating pharmacy. Please call the Brattleboro office to schedule an appointment.
Public health nurses are available Monday through Friday to answer any questions you might have. Health Department office hours are 7:45 AM to 4:30 PM. Our telephone number is 257-2880. (To access this number via the Vermont Telecommunications Relay Service, dial 711 from any where in the state.) Interpreters are available upon request.
Should you have expired potassium iodide (the labeled expiration date is earlier than the date you are reading the label), bring it to the Health Department’s Brattleboro Office for disposal. We are located at 232 Main Street, Suite 3.
Sincerely,
Dianne Champion, RN, MPH
District Supervisor