Youngsters encouraged to enter Lyme Disease Art Contest | Local News

Submissions to the annual Lyme Disease Art Contest, hosted jointly by the Pennsylvania departments of health, education and conservation, are open now through March 11.

Entries received after 5 p.m. on that date will not be considered.

This year’s theme is “Don’t Let a Tick Make You Sick.” Students in grades 1 through 6 are encouraged to submit artwork that explores where ticks live and how to prevent tick bites.

“Ticks that cause Lyme disease are found in every county and every green space, even in cities, which is why it is so important to know the proper steps to take to avoid getting a tick bite,” Keara Klinepeter, Acting Secretary of Health, said in a news release. “Through this art competition, we will be able to educate students and their parents on where ticks live and how to prevent getting a tick bite, furthering our commitment to promoting healthy behaviors and preventing diseases.”

More than 10,000 cases of Lyme disease are reported annually in Pennsylvania. Most are mild and easily treated with antibiotics.

When left untreated, however, a rash resembling a bull’s-eye can appear on the skin. Flu-like symptoms, including joint pain and weakness, are also signs of Lyme disease.

Fortunately, Lyme disease is preventable. Wearing light colors, covering exposed skin and using insect repellent when venturing outdoors are simple ways to prevent a tick bite.

Spreading the word is another way Pennsylvanians might prevent Lyme disease.

Winners will be notified by April 29.