Norwegian municipalities have been asked to stock iodine tablets for their inhabitants during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. An iodine tablet will reduce the risk of developing thyroid cancer if one is exposed to a radioactive substance.

Iodine tablets should initially only be taken once, and only when exposure to radioactive iodine is greatest. The Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA) is clearly stating that it is very unlikely that Norway will be affected by a nuclear accident in Ukraine or that the residents of Norway will need to take iodine tablets.

The national health authorities will decide when to issue a recommendation to take iodine tablets.

Who should take an iodine tablet?

It is primarily children and adolescents under the age of 18, and women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding, who should take an iodine tablet after exposure to radioactive fallout. If a very serious incident occurs, the authorities may recommend that anyone under the age of 40 take an iodine tablet. This will then be clearly stated by the national authorities.

Who should NOT take an iodine tablet?

People over 40 are not recommended to take iodine tablets. The risk of developing thyroid cancer is low once one has reached the age of 40, and because iodine intake in this group can increase the risk of other thyroid diseases and iodine-related side effects.

You should NOT take iodine tablets if you have a disease or are taking medication that dictates that you should not do so. If you are unsure of the medical reasons why you should not take iodine, please contact your family doctor.

People who have had their thyroid gland removed do not need to take iodine.

Schools, kindergartens and child health clinics

The iodine tablets are stored by the kindergartens, schools and neighbourhood child health clinics. The tablets will be quickly handed out to the inhabitants if this becomes necessary.

In the event of a situation where the tablets must be ingested while the children are at school or kindergarten, the schools and kindergartens will be responsible for giving the tablets directly to the children. In order for them to be permitted to do so, we need the consent of parents or guardians.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women, and small children who do not attend kindergarten can visit a child health clinic to receive their iodine tablets. Healthcare professionals will then also be able to provide guidance on correct dosage, and possibly assist in giving the tablet to the youngest children.