Canadian isotope supplier Atomic Energy of Canada (AECL) is ready to increase production to cover a potential shortfall in isotope supply after the recent shutdown of a nuclear reactor in the Netherlands.
In addition, the Canadian government has initiated talks with isotope suppliers in South Africa, France, and Belgium to secure other isotope sources should the need arise. There was no immediate word on how long the Dutch reactor may be offline.
According to a prepared statement issued August 25 by Canada's Natural Resources agency and the Ministry of Health, the Canadian government "is monitoring this developing situation, and is working closely with Atomic Energy of Canada Limited and suppliers in an effort to help ensure a consistent supply of medical isotopes for Canadians."
Even with a planned five-day shutdown for maintenance later this week, the statement confirmed that AECL "will be able to increase its normal production schedule to help close the supply gap should a global shortage arise."
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