KI (Potassium Iodide)

Source: Michigan Department of Health and Human Services - Potassium Iodide, KI

If you live or work within ten miles of a nuclear power plant, this information is for you!

KI is the chemical name for Potassium Iodide - a medicine form of non-radioactive iodine. Iodine is important for normal functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland produces hormones that help manage heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, and other important body functions.

The chance of a serious incident at a nuclear power plant is not likely to occur. However, if there were a serious nuclear incident, radioactive iodine could escape from the plant. If this were to occur, taking KI could protect your thyroid gland from radiation.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) continues to offer potassium iodide (KI) tablets to people living or working within 10 miles of Michigan's nuclear power plants through selected pharmacies (see list below). Vouchers used to obtain KI at the pharmacies are included in the annual mailings from the plants and they may also be downloaded from this site. Vouchers can also be obtained at the pharmacies. Eligible individuals and businesses that do not have KI tablets are invited to get them now. Those who already have their tablets should check the expiration date on the KI box. If it has expired, go to the pharmacy to replace it. Expired KI is not considered hazardous waste and can be discarded in the trash.

Voucher

If you live or work within 10 miles of one of Michigan's three nuclear power plants then download the KI: Potassium Iodide (KI) Voucher. Print and complete the KI: Potassium Iodide (KI) Voucher, then take it to one of the participating pharmacies to redeem it for a supply.

Further Information

For any questions, call the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services at 517-335-8150 or send an email the MDHHS.