How Can We Prepare for and Respond to Radiological Incidents During Armed Conflicts?

[This document is a one of a series of discussion notes addressing fundamental questions about the global health. Its purpose is to transfer scientific knowledge to the public conversation and decision-making process. The papers are based on the best information available and may be updated as new information comes to light.]

The war in Ukraine has renewed fear that nuclear powers will deploy nuclear weapons or launch an attack on a nuclear power plant, such as the one in Zaporizhzhia. Since early in the war, Russia has threatened to use tactical nuclear weapons and suggested that Ukraine and the United States may do the same. In recent months, a number of institutions have undertaken efforts to increase awareness about the protective measures necessary in case of a nuclear emergency.

Although the likelihood of a nuclear event is low, the magnitude of its consequences justifies adequate preparation. An all-hazards approach greatly facilitates this task. Because radiological incidents are similar in many ways to other emergencies, the design of easily adaptable core preparedness and response plans is a resource-efficient and effective solution.

This document, written by Elizabet Diago, Clara Marín, Liudmila Liutsko, Gonzalo Fanjul and Elisabeth Cardis, analyses different types of radiological incidents that a war can cause and examines potential health effects. It also presents lessons learned from past responses and recommendations on how to prepare for and respond to future radiological incidents.

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