Dear SJS Parents,
The Governor of Maryland and the St. Mary’s County Commissioners have made the decision to have Potassium Iodide (KI) made available to those residents of the designated Emergency Planning Zone (approximately 10-mile radius) of the Calvert Cliff’s Nuclear Power Plant. The preventative medication, Potassium Iodide (KI) has been acquired at St. John’s School. In the event of a nuclear emergency at the Calvert Cliff’s Nuclear Power Plant, evacuation of schools with in the Emergency Planning Zone (EPZ) will be the primary goal. Potassium Iodide has been made available to the schools in the EPZ which include: Green Holly Elementary School, Town Creek Elementary School, Hollywood Elementary School, St. John’s School and Esperanza Middle School.
Potassium Iodide (KI) taken shortly prior to an exposure to radiation blocks the absorption of radioactive iodide by the thyroid gland. It does not provide protection against any other form of radiation. Radioactive iodide may cause cancer of the thyroid 15-20 years after exposure. This timeline makes protecting children of primary importance. The St. Mary’s County Health Officer, and/or myself, is authorized to order the issuance and subsequent consumption of KI.
Please review the Potassium Iodide information at www.fda.gov/drugs/emergencypreparedness/bioterrorismaddrugpreparedness/ucm072265.htm.
Selecting "Yes" to the question "Do you want your child to receive Potassium Iodide in case of a nuclear event?" on the submission form is your signature indicating that you have elected to authorize the administration of Potassium Iodide (KI) to your son/daughter if ordered by the St. Mary’s County Health Officer, and/or myself in case of a radioactive release from the Calvert Cliff’s Nuclear Power Plant.
Individuals who are allergic to Iodide or shellfish should NOT take Potassium Iodide. This consent will remain in effect unless revoked by the parent or legal guardians. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact your health care provider, the school nurse via email at [email protected] , or the St. Mary’s County Health Department at 301-475-4316. The school must receive this form back for all registered students at St. John’s School on or before August 26, 2022.
Yours In Christ,
Susan McDonough