In the wake of the deadly earthquake and tsunami that has brought devastation to many parts of Japan, much attention has been given to the crisis at the stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.

The events that have unfolded there since the earthquake have opened the eyes of the world in many ways, but have unfortunately created some unnecessary panic in other parts of the world.

The situation in Japan should not be taken lightly. There are definitely people there that will be affected, and the way we look at nuclear energy will most certainly be changed in many ways, but the events that have unfolded in our country have been a bit over the top in some ways.

Fear over the mounting crisis in Japan has led some people to go to extremes. There have been some that have contributed to the heightened fear in our country of radiation exposure by promoting the stockpiling of potassium iodide tablets to Canadians, even though the World Heath Organization (WHO) has stated that the radiation exposure is quite localized – to within 30 km of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant. 

According to the WHO, “the decision to stockpile or take potassium iodide tablets should be based on information provided by national health authorities who will be in the best position to determine if there is enough evidence to warrant these steps.”

The WHO states that potassium iodide pills are not “radiation antidotes”. They do not protect against external radiation, or against any other radioactive substances besides radioiodine. They may also cause medical complications for some individuals with poorly functioning kidneys. Potassium iodide should be taken only when there is a clear public health recommendation. 

According to Health Canada, “based on the information available, the amount of radiation reaching Canada does not pose a health risk to Canadians.”

Current information also shows that even though there are areas of Japan outside of the evacuation zone that have elevated radiation levels, they are still well below the level at which health risks would occur. 

The damaged nuclear power plant in Japan is not expected to pose a risk to residents of B.C. or the rest of Canada, and Health Canada does not recommend Canadians take potassium iodide pills. 

“KI [potassium iodide tablets] should not be taken unless there is a clear public health recommendation to do so,” states Health Canada, adding that they do not recommend Canadians take any specific actions to protect themselves from this radiological emergency, including the purchase or consumption of KI. 

So, are we being irrational?

Some would say no, referring to reports that levels of radiation along the west coast are slightly increased.

Radiation monitors along the B.C. coast are showing “minuscule” increases in radiation, but this has been something that was anticipated, and Health Canada reports that increased radiation levels in the water “is not unusual and is a variation less than what we would see after it rains.”

It’s easy to get caught up in the sensationalism of many media outlets and while it is important to stay informed, it is also important to use a filter and make sure there is a real need to be afraid before getting caught up in the “hoopla”.