A Public Health Perspective on the U.S. Response to the Fukushima Radiological Emergency

In March 2011, Japan faced a devastating earthquake and tsunami, leading to radionuclide releases at the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant. Radioactive material from Japan reached the U.S., prompting public health responses. Challenges included limited monitoring capacity, lack of authority to detain contaminated individuals, and the need for improved communication and uniform exposure standards. This article provides lessons learned from that response that can enhance public health preparedness efforts.