HARRISBURG, PA — Pennsylvania officials on Thursday recognized 18 students from across the Commonwealth for winning entries in the state’s 2026 “Protect. Check. Remove.” Lyme Disease Student Art Competition, part of a broader public health effort to increase awareness of tickborne illnesses and prevention measures.
The annual contest, organized by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, encourages elementary school students to create posters and videos promoting tick safety and Lyme disease prevention. Officials from the departments of Health, Conservation and Natural Resources, and Environmental Protection participated in Thursday’s recognition event.
More than 145 students in first through sixth grades submitted entries this year. Winning artwork will remain on display at the Pennsylvania State Capitol’s East Wing through the end of May.
Pennsylvania routinely ranks among the top 10 states nationally for Lyme disease cases, according to the release. State health officials warned untreated infections can spread to joints, the heart and the nervous system.
Health Secretary Debra Bogen said the contest is intended to help families adopt routine prevention practices before spending time outdoors.
“Don’t let a tick bite ruin your season: wear repellent, cover up, and make tick checks a part of your daily routine,” Bogen said.
Winning students represented multiple counties, including Chester, Bucks, Erie, Lebanon, Lancaster, Berks and Columbia counties.
First- and second-grade winners included Malorie Spiece of Columbia County, Alexandra King of Bucks County and Shaina KaPoor of Chester County.
Third- and fourth-grade winners included Anwitha Ajith and Sanchari Roy of Chester County, along with Novalee Andrzejczak of Erie County.
Among fifth- and sixth-grade winners were Henry Tobias of Lebanon County, Sid Ghatta of Chester County, and Ella McCunney, Zara Vázquez and Priya Carrasco, also of Chester County.
The state also recognized video contest participants Josephine and Morrigan Kelly of Chester County, Abe Pomeroy of Erie County and Lily Doty of Lancaster County.
State officials urged residents to use insect repellent, wear protective clothing, check themselves and pets for ticks after outdoor activity, and shower after spending time outside.
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