HARRISBURG, PA — Six students and one student group from Chester County were among the statewide winners recognized by the Shapiro administration in Pennsylvania’s 2026 “Protect. Check. Remove.” Lyme Disease Student Art Competition, highlighting growing public health efforts to increase tick awareness among children and families.
The annual contest, organized by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, drew more than 145 submissions from students in first through sixth grades across the commonwealth. Winning posters and videos promoting Lyme disease prevention will remain on display at the Pennsylvania State Capitol through the end of May.
Chester County students captured multiple top placements across several categories, including first place in the third and fourth grade poster division for Anwitha Ajith and second place in the fifth and sixth grade category for Sid Ghatta.
Additional Chester County winners included Shaina KaPoor, who earned third place in the first and second grade poster category, and Sanchari Roy, who placed third in the third and fourth grade division.
A student group consisting of Ella McCunney, Zara Vázquez and Priya Carrasco received third place in the fifth and sixth grade poster category, while Josephine and Morrigan Kelly were recognized among the statewide video contest winners.
State officials used the ceremony Thursday to promote tick safety awareness ahead of Pennsylvania’s peak outdoor recreation season.
“As a pediatrician, I know that playing and spending time outdoors is an important part of a healthy childhood — but so is protection,” Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen said. “Don’t let a tick bite ruin your season: wear repellent, cover up, and make tick checks a part of your daily routine.”
Pennsylvania consistently ranks among the top states nationally for reported Lyme disease cases. Health officials warned that untreated infections can spread to the joints, heart and nervous system.
The Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources also participated in the event, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures as residents spend more time outdoors during warmer months.
Officials encouraged Pennsylvanians to use EPA-approved insect repellents, wear protective clothing, check for ticks after outdoor activity and dry clothing on high heat to help kill ticks before they attach.
The Department of Health also maintains an online dashboard tracking tickborne disease activity across Pennsylvania to help residents assess local risk levels before outdoor activities.
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