Who is poisoning us? Radioactive particles detected in Europe

Scientists have discovered mysterious radioactive particles throughout Central and Western Europe last week

According to the German Radiation Protection Office, increased levels of radiation contain particles of ruthenium-106, an isotope used in the treatment of cancer by radiation therapy.
Increased levels of ruthenium-106 have been discovered in the air in Austria, France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland.

Although officials say there is no need for panic, they do not know where the material came from. Increased levels of radiation do not pose a risk to human health. But do you believe your government? "New analyzes of radioactive material sources probably indicate the release of materials in the southern Urals," the Radiation Protection Department said, "but other regions in southern Russia can not be excluded."

The Office said that, although the presence of ruthenium-106 only detected, it excludes nuclear-related accidents. Similar "sudden increase" in the detection of radioactive particles have occurred throughout Europe in the past, but they are rare.

In February, traces of radioactive iodine-131 were detected in some parts of Europe, although the source of radioactivity was very weak. The French Institute of IRSN reported traces of radioactivity were discovered in Norway, Finland, Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, France and Spain.

• 12 Oct, 2017
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