Potassium Iodide Distribution

Mecklenburg County sits between two Duke Energy nuclear power plants, McGuire and Catawba. Due to their proximity to Mecklenburg County, residents and business should be prepared to protect themselves should a nuclear release affecting the health and safety of County residents occur.

In preparation of a possible nuclear release, the MCPH Preparedness Team provides potassium iodide (KI) tablets to Mecklenburg County residents and businesses who are within 10-miles of either nuclear power plant. Potassium iodide is a non-prescription medication that is used to protect the thyroid gland in the event of a nuclear release or radiological emergency. If taken at the appropriate time and at the proper dosage, potassium iodide can block the intake of radioactive iodine, therefore reducing the risk of thyroid cancer. Potassium iodide should NOT be taken unless directed by public health officials. If taking potassium iodide is recommended by public health officials, residents and businesses should still follow evacuation or shelter-in-place recommendations as well.

If you are a Mecklenburg County resident who lives or works within 10-miles of either nuclear power plant, please visit the following locations during normal business hours to obtain your potassium iodide (KI):

If you are a resident or business in Catawba, Gaston, Iredell or Lincoln County within 10-miles of either nuclear power plant, please visit the following distribution sites during normal business hours or contact your local health department for more information. South Carolina residents and businesses should contact their local health department for more information. Please call before visiting each distribution site to check the availability of potassium iodide.

*Businesses should send all requests by fax to the Statesville Campus at 704-871-3474. Requests should be on company letterhead and must contain the number of employees on site during the largest shift and the name(s) of company representative(s) who will have the authority to pick up the tablets. All requests must be submitted at least 5 days in advance.