West Nile virus warning issued
REDSTONE TWP. – The possibility of West Nile encephalitis is hitting closer to home, with reports of infected birds in both Washington and Westmoreland counties, and Redstone Township supervisors are warning their residents to be aware of the problem. Supervisor Larry Williams said residents should be particularly aware of dead crows, blue jays or owls.
“Don’t handle it. Just give us a call,” Williams said.
The birds, which can be infected with the virus by mosquitoes, must be tested to see if they have the disease. They are an indication of whether the disease is present in an area, though humans don’t contract the disease from the birds, but from mosquito bites.
In other matters, the supervisors announced that all residents and businesses in the township should have received a map of the township recently.
The maps also include historic information about the township as well as facts about meeting times, governing boards and demographic information.
Ralph Rice, chairman of the supervisors, said the maps were made possible through sponsorships, and no township funds were used to print the maps. Anyone who did not get a map can pick one up at the township building.
Code enforcement officer Robert Stogran reported that Noah’s Ark of Fayette County provided five hours of patrol time in the township in July. The animal shelter picked up nine dogs and 12 cats and received five calls for animal complaints.
Stogran issued 11 citations during the month under township ordinances. Five were for high grass, two for abandoned vehicles, two for building code violations and two for garbage violations.