GuySega
~-—ccctesmenes
where complaints were treated as though radiatinn had not been present.
Skin lesions were kept clean by surgical soap with excellent results lead-
ing to a minim of secondary infection and rezarkably prompt healing.
4s felt that this ecnservative regimen gave optimm results and that all
T%
patients are recovering satisfactorily,
Detailed reports will be rendered by Project 4.1 on all cases.
Detailed statistical analyses will be required to properly evaluate the
data derived. Urine samples which have been analyzed in the U. S$. will
be combined with this stady. A detailed study of characteristics of the
fallout samples, shielding properties of the measuring instruments, and
weather analysis will be necessary before a more exact dose of external
whole body radiation can be established. The study of all aspects should
lead to a mech clearer concept of dose versus effect. The picture of ae
ternal garma radiation with a broad spectral band, combined with external
beta radiation, and internal hazard makes a very complicated proble in
the final report.
As a corollary to immediate treatment of the personnel exposed to
the radiation, evaluation of the hazard remaining upon rehabilitation mst
be investigated. To that end soil and water samples, animals, plants and
other comestibles are being investigated with a view of determining if and
woen the natives may be returned to their hone atolls.
All persomel who have been involved in large dose exposures and
those whose dose was small but who may have to reside in an active area
=f
should be cbserved over a long period of time.
The first year following
the tests, re-examination should be at quarterly intervals. This has been
discussed with the Director, Division of Blalogy and Medicine, AEC, who
advises that it is the intention of his organization to maintaina periodde observation systea.
In summary, natives from adjacent atolls and Americans from the
Task Force were exposed to radiation in doses from a few roentgens to
approximately 150 roentgens. Some of the more heavily irradisted may be
considered to have been borderline from a standpoint of seriousness.
All should recover from the effects of the exposure.
kbcdenJPepin
————
Colonel, Medical Corps
Staff Surgeon