Health Information for Specific Groups

High-Risk Groups

• Although anyone exposed to radiation may experience health effects, a developing fetus is the most vulnerable to the effects of radiation exposure.
• Infants, children, the elderly, pregnant women, and people with compromised immune systems are more vulnerable to health effects from radiation exposure than healthy adults.
• It is important for everyone, especially these groups to follow protective action instructions and to seek medical attention after a radiation emergency as soon as it is safe to do so.

Nursing Mothers

• In a radiation emergency, it is possible for nursing mothers who are near the affected area to be exposed to radiation or to become internally contaminated with radioactive material.
  • Radioactive materials can be passed to babies through breast milk of mothers with internal contamination.
• If possible, nursing mothers should consider temporarily stopping breastfeeding and switch to either breast milk (that was pumped and stored before the exposure) or formula, until they can be seen by a health care professional.
  • Formula containers and feeding supplies should be cleaned with a damp cloth or clean towel before use. Put the used cloth or towel in a plastic bag or other sealable container and place the bag in an out-of-the-way place, away from other people and pets.
  • If no other source of food is available, continue to breastfeed. Wash the nipple and breast thoroughly with soap and warm water before nursing.
• If nursing mothers are advised to visit a CRC, they should let CRC staff know so that they can receive appropriate attention.
• For additional questions or concerns, contact your healthcare provider.