The key facts about distribution in 2023/2024

Iodine tablets (potassium iodide 65 SERB tablets) will be distributed as a precautionary measure to people living in regions within 50 km of the Swiss nuclear power plants (Beznau 1, Beznau 2, Gösgen, Leibstadt). The iodine tablets will be sent by post to all households in these regions between mid-October and mid-November 2023. They will be distributed to workplaces (trades, industry, companies, etc.) and public facilities (schools, children’s daycare centres, hospitals, authorities, etc.) in the first quarter of 2024. All recipients will be provided with detailed information about the iodine tablets at the same time.

Precautionary distribution directly to the population

The iodine tablets will be distributed to people living within 50 km of a Swiss nuclear power plant. The number of tablets distributed will deliberately be more than the number needed for one person so that, in an emergency, there will also be enough for relatives or visitors who have not received iodine tablets or do not have them with them. In regions outside of this 50 km radius, the cantons store enough iodine tablets to supply the population in good time should the need arise.

Iodine tablets for new arrivals

People who move to a municipality within a 50 km radius of a Swiss nuclear power plant after the tablets have been distributed in 2023 will also be given iodine tablets. When they register in the new municipality they will automatically be given vouchers for the tablets by the municipal authority. The vouchers entitle them to obtain their iodine tablets free of charge from a pharmacy or drugstore within the distribution area.

Old tablets can be returned easily at no cost

The iodine tablets have been distributed in a purple pack for about 10 years; they were previously distributed in a red pack. Small quantities of these old iodine tablets (up to 10 packs) can simply be returned to a pharmacy or drugstore. Workplaces and public facilities with more than 10 packs of old iodine tablets will be informed separately about the options for returning them.

The distribution area

Iodine tablets are distributed every ten years to people living within 50 km of a Swiss nuclear power plant. It is no longer necessary to distribute iodine tablets directly to people living in municipalities close to the former Mühleberg nuclear power plant. In regions outside of this 50 km radius, the cantons store enough iodine tablets to supply the population should the need arise. A full list of all affected municipalities (listed by canton) can be found in the Ordinance on the Provision of Iodine Tablets to the Public.

Interactive map
The distribution area
Omission
Nuclear power plant in operation
Nuclear power plant out of operation