Luxembourg in 2014 distributed free iodide pills to its population with the nuclear power plant in Cattenom looming on the horizon. The pills aim to saturate the thyroid gland, the main organ in which iodine accumulates. This reduces the absorption of iodine-131 or other radioactive isotopes released during a nuclear accident.

But there has been a rush from people in Luxembourg to get their hands on the pills since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

“These last days, many people have tried to procure potassium iodide pills in pharmacies and at communes,” the government said in a press release on Wednesday but added: “Taking potassium iodide tablets is only advised in the event of an accident at a nuclear power plant and on instruction from authorities.”

The health ministry explained that the pills provide protection in specific scenarios, depending on the severity of the nuclear incident, weather conditions and proximity.

“For other scenarios, which would take place either at greater distances or which would concern other types of installations, taking potassium iodide tablets does not offer protection.”

Prime minister Xavier Bettel (DP) during a press conference on Tuesday with German chancellor Olaf Scholz warned that people in Luxembourg and elsewhere in the EU are worried about the threat of nuclear war.

Diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine must continue, he said, while supporting hefty sanctions packages against Russian officials, businessmen, companies and banks.