Officials say it’s part of ongoing inventory management.
QUICK FACTS:
- The Biden administration is increasing its stockpile of medications used to treat the side effects of acute radiation syndrome (ARS).
- Some reports indicate this could be a sign of impending danger, as the administration has allocated $290 million on Amgen drug Nplate for “radiological and nuclear emergencies.”
- ARS is life-threatening and, depending on symptoms, can have a low chance of survival, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- The drug, Nplate, was developed in Thousand Oaks, California, as part of the Department of Health and Human Services Strategic Preparedness and Response (ASPR) plan.
- “To reduce radiation-induced bleeding, Nplate stimulates the body’s production of platelets. The drug can be used to treat adults and children,” Health and Human Services (HSS) said.
- Officials have stated the purchase is part of “inventory management practices.”
WHAT ELSE THE BIDEN ADMIN SAID:
- According to the Biden administration’s release, “As part of long-standing, ongoing efforts to be better prepared to save lives following radiological and nuclear emergencies, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is purchasing a supply of the drug Nplate from Amgen USA Inc; Nplate is approved to treat blood cell injuries that accompany acute radiation syndrome in adult and pediatric patients (ARS).”
- “ARS, also known as radiation sickness, occurs when a person’s entire body is exposed to a high dose of penetrating radiation, reaching internal organs in a matter of seconds,” HHS went on. “Symptoms of ARS injuries include impaired blood clotting as a result of low platelet counts, which can lead to uncontrolled and life-threatening bleeding.”
BACKGROUND:
- In July of this year, New York City aired its “Nuclear Preparedness PSA” which offered tips for residents in case of an attack. New Yorkers were encouraged to “get inside” and “stay inside” in the case of a nuclear attack.
- Residents were also advised to stay inside, shut windows and doors, move to the middle of the building, take off clothing, and shower with a cleansing agent.
- New York City Emergency Management Commissioner Zach Iscol said, “New York City Emergency Management has a multitude of free resources for New Yorkers to prepare for emergencies, including no-notice events,” according to the city’s official website.
- The alert appears to be in response to nuclear programs by Russia, Iran, and North Korea, all of whom either have or are expected to soon have viable nuclear programs.
