HARRISBURG, PA — The Shapiro Administration has launched the 2025 Lyme Disease Student Art Contest, inviting Pennsylvania students in grades one through six to participate by creating posters or short videos themed “Protect. Check. Remove.” The initiative aims to educate young minds on tick prevention and the risks of Lyme disease, an ongoing public health concern in the state.
Pennsylvania consistently reports one of the nation’s highest counts of Lyme disease cases, making awareness campaigns critical. “We encourage all Pennsylvanians to be active and enjoy nature as part of a healthy lifestyle. At the same time, it’s important to take basic precautions to protect against Lyme and other tickborne diseases,” said Health Secretary Dr. Debra Bogen.
By participating, students, scout troops, and community youth programs will gain key insights into where ticks thrive, how to prevent bites, and proper tick removal. The deadline for submissions is March 14, 2025, with finalists being notified by mail. Winners will be recognized at an award ceremony held at the State Capitol in May.
Highlighting the creative and educational potential of the contest, Interim Acting Secretary of Education Angela Fitterer remarked, “This art contest provides students with a creative way to combine their health and science knowledge with art to help raise awareness as tick season approaches.”
State departments, including Health, Education, Environmental Protection (DEP), and Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), are collaborating to support this contest. DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn emphasized the importance of safety while enjoying Pennsylvania’s outdoors, stating, “Protecting against ticks is essential to enjoying the many benefits of getting outdoors.”
Participants and families are reminded to take precautions during outdoor activities, such as using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and conducting thorough tick checks after outdoor exposure. DEP Acting Secretary Jessica Shirley commended the initiative, noting, “It’s inspiring to see young people taking an active role in raising awareness to help fight tick bites and prevent these illnesses.”
Through creativity and awareness, the contest seeks to empower younger generations to tackle the risks of Lyme disease head-on, ensuring safer outdoor experiences for all Pennsylvanians.
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