WESTBOROUGH, MA — A mosquito sample collected in Westborough has tested positive for a virus that can spread to people through mosquito bites.
West Nile virus has been detected in mosquitoes collected in Westborough, town health officials announced Tuesday. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health confirmed the finding.
The virus is most commonly transmitted to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes and can affect people of all ages, though those over 50 face a greater risk of severe illness.
The Board of Health urged residents to continue protecting themselves from mosquito bites until the first hard frost.
Health officials recommend using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants outdoors, and limiting outdoor activity between dusk and dawn, when many mosquitoes are most active.
Residents should also drain standing water around their homes, regularly empty items such as unused flowerpots and wading pools and change the water in birdbaths. Window and door screens should fit tightly and be repaired if damaged.
The Westborough Health Department is working with the state Department of Public Health and Central Massachusetts Mosquito Control Project to monitor mosquito activity.
However, the town says mosquito spraying is no longer considered effective because of cooler evening temperatures. The mosquito control project will continue surveillance in Westborough and the town plans to install additional signs reminding residents to take precautions.
More information about West Nile virus and current and historical mosquito activity is available on the Massachusetts Department of Public Health website.
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