HARRISBURG, PA — Handmade ornaments crafted by older Pennsylvanians now sparkle beneath the Capitol dome, even as state health and aging officials warn residents not to let holiday cheer overshadow the rising risks of flu season.
The Pennsylvania Department of Aging announced Tuesday that the State Capitol Christmas tree is adorned with hundreds of ornaments created by older adults from across the Commonwealth, a tradition officials say celebrates creativity, unity, and community during one of the Capitol’s busiest seasons. The tree, displayed in the Main Rotunda, will remain on view through January 8.
Ornaments were submitted by participants from 93 senior community centers spanning 36 counties, representing nearly every corner of Pennsylvania. Secretary of Aging Jason Kavulich said the display highlights the talent and contributions of older adults while offering a symbol of connection for the hundreds of thousands of visitors expected to pass through the Capitol during the holidays.
County senior centers from Allegheny to York took part, including centers in Chester, Lancaster, Delaware, Montgomery, Philadelphia, and Westmoreland counties, among many others. Aging officials said the annual tradition reflects the role senior centers play in fostering engagement, purpose, and community for older residents.
While the Capitol tree spreads seasonal cheer, state leaders are also sounding a note of caution as respiratory virus season intensifies.
On December 12, Pennsylvania Secretary of Health Dr. Debra Bogen and Secretary Kavulich visited the Bucktown Center in Dunmore to urge Pennsylvanians — especially older adults — to get vaccinated against the flu before holiday gatherings accelerate the spread of illness.
State health data show 7,125 laboratory-confirmed flu cases so far this season, along with 239 adult hospital admissions and 87 pediatric admissions. Those figures are roughly in line with the past two flu seasons, but officials stressed that older adults face a significantly higher risk of severe illness and complications.
Health authorities say it takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to build protective antibodies, making early December a critical window for protection ahead of travel and family events. Officials emphasized that the flu vaccine is updated annually to match circulating strains and is recommended for everyone six months and older.
Most insurance plans cover the flu shot at no cost, and uninsured or underinsured residents can access vaccines through state health centers, federally qualified health centers, or the Vaccines for Children program. State officials also highlighted a newer option allowing eligible residents ages 2 to 49 to self-administer an FDA-approved nasal spray flu vaccine at home after an online screening.
The vaccination push follows an executive order signed earlier this year by Governor Josh Shapiro aimed at safeguarding access to evidence-based vaccines and countering misinformation. The order directs state agencies to align with medical guidance, establish a centralized vaccine information portal, and strengthen public education efforts.
Officials said the message this holiday season is one of balance — celebrating tradition and togetherness while taking practical steps to protect loved ones.
As the Capitol tree glows with ornaments shaped by decades of lived experience, state leaders are urging Pennsylvanians to ensure the season’s memories are defined by connection and care, not preventable illness.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.