Polonium-210: lessons learned from the contamination of individual Canadians

Abstract

This paper describes the radioactive poisoning episode in London in 2006 and the Health Canada response to locate and test any Canadians who might have been contaminated by this event. The search strategies and testing methods are explained and the results given. The lessons learned are summarised and implications for vulnerable populations are discussed. The greatest public health impact was probably the generation of fear and concern, especially among those prone to health-related anxiety disorders. The groups of individuals at risk were effectively managed by a single point of contact system combined with rapid triage and counselling that was provided to everyone to address their individual concerns.