PRELIMINARY CONTEST 2024
ROUND 1
SECOND SET OF QUESTIONS
PREAMBLE
State one major allergic reaction that results from human exposure to blue-green algae.
ANSWER: Exposure to blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) can trigger allergic reactions in humans, including skin rashes, eye and throat irritation, gastrointestinal upset (gastroenteritis), and respiratory symptoms similar to hay fever.
PRACTICE QUESTIONS
1. What is an allergy?
ANSWER: An over-reaction of the immune system to a harmless substance
2. What is an allergen?
ANSWER: A substance that triggers an allergy
3. Which antibody is involved in allergies?
ANSWER: IgE
4. Which chemical released by mast cells causes allergy symptoms?
ANSWER: Histamine
5. Which cells release histamine?
ANSWER: Mast cells
6. What allergic reaction does pollen cause?
ANSWER: Hay fever (sneezing, runny nose and itchy eyes)
7. What allergic condition can dust mites trigger?
ANSWER: Asthma
8. What severe reaction can peanuts cause?
ANSWER: Anaphylaxis
9. Which drugs relieve mild allergy symptoms?
ANSWER: Antihistamines
10. Which drug treats anaphylaxis?
ANSWER: Adrenaline
11. What reactions can insect stings cause?
ANSWER: Swelling, hives and anaphylaxis
12. Name a reaction to blue-green algae.
ANSWER: Skin rash (or eye and throat irritation)