Romania to Increase Iodine Pills Production following Nuclear Fear

In the context of the war in Ukraine and the recent statements of Russian President Vladimir Putin – which include nuclear weapons, Romanians rushed to the pharmacies. They started stockpiling iodine, which drastically dwindled stocks.

Experts argue that there are health risks associated with taking iodine pills, so people should not buy them without prescriptions. Potassium iodide pills help block the absorption of radioactive iodine in a part of the body called the thyroid gland, located in the throat. The tablets only help protect the thyroid gland, not other body parts. But Romanians follow their path when it comes to health.

Romanians are self-medicated on anything, and sometimes the internet is better for them than any doctor. Remember that Romania is a country where citizens pour USD 4 billion a year into pills.

Romania was also one of the countries affected by the Chernobyl disaster in 1986, and the collective memory of that tragic event is still present. It was triggered by the bombing of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant on Friday, March 4.

In this context, Romania’s Prime Minister Nicolae Ciuca said on Sunday, March 6, on a local television channel, that at the moment, there is an insufficient number of iodine pills. Therefore, he requested the Minister of Health to contact the drug manufacturers to fill the stock.

Therefore, in the circumstances like this, Romanians are ready for anything. Romanians are prepared for the darkest scenario, whether a pandemic lockdown or a nuclear attack. In addition to the supply of food and toilet paper, Romanians are starting to stock up on iodine pills to ensure they will survive any catastrophe.

Ironically, even though medics and authorized specialists are prohibiting the administration of iodine pills without a proper medical examination, due to the possible adverse effects of this substance, Romanian authorities urge iodine pills production following the huge demand.

Even so, Romania doesn’t have the necessary stock for an attack. Romanian Prime Minister admitted that Romania does not have enough iodine pills in radiation danger.

I can tell you that there are a number of iodine pills right now. It is insufficient, which is why the Ministry of Health has contacted our drug manufacturers so that they can produce such pills as a matter of urgency.

Nicolae Ciuca, Romanian Prime Minister