Effects of the radiological release at Chernobyl
The Chernobyl Nuclear Power station, located in the Ukraine Republic about 100 kilometers (62 miles) north-west of Kiev and 310 kilometers (193 miles) south-east of Minsk (in Belarus), experienced an uncontrolled release of radioactive material in April, 1986. This event seems to have resulted in the largest short term release of radioactive materials to the atmosphere ever recorded. The radiological contamination primarily affected three Republics: the Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia. The highest areas of radioactive ground contamination occurred within 30 km (19 miles) of Chernobyl.

Area Considerations
Short term international travelers to the republics of Ukraine, Belarus, and Russia (i.e., those who plan to stay in the region less than a few months) should not be concerned about residing in areas that are not controlled (i.e., marked with signs or fenced). However, we do caution longer term visitors that there are some non-controlled areas where an individual could receive a radiation dose from the radio-active ground contam-ination in excess of the international radiological health standards recommended for most members of the public. Long term visitors should investigate the local conditions prior to choosing a long-term residence. (For example, ground contamination that exceeds 5 curies per square kilometer (5 Ci/km²) of cesium-137 could result in a radiation dose greater than the recommended standards.)

Food and Water Considerations
Officials of the three republics attempt to monitor all food stuffs sold in the public markets for levels of radioactivity. Radioactive concentration limits have been established for various classes of food, e.g., milk, meat, and vegetables. These limits are comparable to standards used by many western nations including the European Economic Community. Food with contamination levels in excess of these limits is not allowed to be sold in the market. Private farmers regularly make food available for sale outside the official market system. This food is not monitored for radioactivity and it is recommended that travelers not consume this food. Likewise, it is recommended that travelers not consume any wild berries, wild mushrooms or wild game from these regions. And, it is also recommended that travelers drink only bottled water.

Age and Health Considerations
Young children, unborn babies, and nursing infants are potentially at greater risk from exposure to radiation than adults. Pregnant or nursing mothers should pay extra attention to acquiring and consuming food from reliable well-monitored sources.