A Camper's Guide to the Immune System

Abstract

The purpose of this literature review is to compile research about common health events that occur at summer camp and the associated immune system processes. By creating a link between typical summer camp injuries, illnesses, and the resulting immune responses, this review can educate youth, parents, and camp staff about health and safety of children attending summer camps. Research in these areas was assembled in three ways: first, by analyzing my own experience as a camper, counselor, and administrative team member; second, by applying content from courses "Physiology of the Immune System" and "Infancy and Childhood Development"; and third, by examining research previously done and posted in various journals, books, and websites. Using the fictional camper, Calvin, he experiences four common issues; skin abrasions, insect bites, parasite ingestion, and contact dermatitis. Skin abrasions result in release of cytokines that stimulate an acute inflammatory response. With the activation of the plasma-kinin and coagulation cascades, the inflammation is kept local and the wound heals. Insect bites lead to activation of antibodies, which are able to clear countless extracellular infections due to high variability and specificity. Similarly, a special class of antibodies, specifically IgE, clears parasite infections. Lastly, contact dermatitis results from a type IV immune response, in which T-helper cells react excessively. Further research is required to report sufficient safety and preventive practices.