Researchers from the Romanian Nuclear Physics Institute have discovered traces of radioactive iodine in milk samples from sheep and in rain water in Romania. However, the measured values ​​are so small that they don't pose any danger to human health, according to specialists.

There is no danger for the Romanian population, according to Nicolae Zamfir, director of the Institute. The presence of radioactive iodine in Romania is a proof that the effects of a nuclear accident can be felt at 10,000 km distance, Romanian experts say, adding that they will continue to monitor the levels of the radioactive iodine.

Japanese authorities on Tuesday reassessed the severity of the nuclear crisis in the country, placing it at the same level as the Chernobyl disaster of 1986. The Chernobyl nuclear accident happened on April 26, 1986 and consisted in a boiler explosion, followed by radioactive contamination of the surrounding area.

Irina Popescu, irina.popescu@romania-inisder.com