Research the following problem using a search engine such as www.altavista.com or www.google.com. Please avoid doing searches with AOL, Ask An Expert, or Ask Jeeves. They do not provide the full breadth of Websites needed to investigate scientific topics. Before pursuing this activity, first come up with a list of key words or phrases you would need to perform an accurate and concise search.
Histamines play a valuable role in non-specific immunity. However, too much histamine production is associated with the discomfort of allergies. A friend of yours is concerned that taking antihistamines for her allergies during a trip to Central America may have weakened her immune system and predisposed her to food poisoning she contracted in Honduras. Answer the following questions related to her concern: 1) What is the medical value of prescribing antihistamines for her allergies? 2) Do antihistamines have the capability of suppressing the immune response against food poisoning?
