But people made sick by radiation are temporarily more susceptible to infection. Exposure that causes sickness is much lower than those that cause death. Being sick does not indicate that one is necessarily going to die. No one should thirst or starve for fear of contaminated water or food. Illness can be caused as readily by malnutrition and poor sanitation as by radiation injury.
Protection is possible via a fallout shelter.
The further you are from the fallout particles the less radiation you will receive. Have access to a fallout shelter or basement. Store food ,water, and other supplies. Include a supply of potassium iodide which is stocked in heavy amounts in military preparations because it can help prevent damage caused by fallout as it cycles through the human body. Build a fallout shelter or go to a retreat property or basement shelter.