Mixed Message on Radiation Concerns

A bit of a mixed message from the government about the dangers of radiation from the disaster in Japan reaching the United States.

In an interview with Pittsburgh TV station, KDKA, reporter Jon Delano and the President had this exchange:

Delano: “Are you at all worried about radiation from Japan reaching American shores?”

Obama: “No. I’ve been assured that any nuclear release dissipates by the time it gets even to Hawaii, much less to the main land of the United States.”

Okay.

But, last night on at least two of the "big three" network evening newscasts, I saw people on the West Coast emptying pharmacies of potassium iodide.

And, in a report in the Bay Area last night, Surgeon General Regina Benjamin said it is good to be prepared and appropriate for people to stock up on potassium iodide pills.

Okay. So should we or should we not freak out?

UPDATE: Now the State Department is advising anyone within 50 miles of the nuclear facilities having leaks to leave. The Japanese government's recommendation is to evacuate areas within 20 miles of the nuclear facilities.

Hmm.... Discrepancies abound.