MIDDLEBORO — The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has confirmed the presence of West Nile virus in a mosquito sample collected from Middleboro, prompting health officials to urge precautionary measures.

The virus is most commonly spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus-carrying mosquitoes are found throughout Massachusetts, both in urban and rural areas. While anyone can be infected, individuals over the age of 50 are at a higher risk for severe illness.

Plymouth County Mosquito Control conducted truck-based spraying in Middleboro, Thursday and Friday morning, Aug. 7 and 8 between 2 a.m. and sunrise, covering the majority of residential and downtown areas. 

For additional spraying, residents will need to submit a request at https://www.plymouthmosquito.org. Those who wish to opt out of mosquito spraying can be added to the "No Spray" list through the same website. 

The Middleboro Health Department is urging residents to take common-sense precautions to avoid mosquito bites:

Use insect repellent. Recommended brands include those containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. DEET should not be used on infants under two months old, and oil of lemon eucalyptus is not recommended for children under three.

Wear long-sleeved clothing. Pants are also recommended, particularly when outdoors, from dusk to dawn — peak mosquito biting hours.

Limit outdoor time. Activity should be avoided during early morning and evening, which are peak hours. 

Drain standing water. Residents should remove water from around their home to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. This includes birdbaths, unused flowerpots, wading pools, gutters and drains.

Install or repair screens. Screens on windows and doors will keep mosquitoes from entering homes.

“Our goal is to reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illness through both community-wide efforts and individual action,” wrote Kayla Smith, Middleboro Health Director. “We encourage residents to stay informed and take steps to protect themselves and their families.”

No human cases of the virus have been reported in Middleboro as of this writing.

For more information on West Nile Virus activity and mosquito control in Massachusetts, visit the state Department of Health website at www.mass.gov/dph/mosquito, or contact the Middleboro Health Department at 508-946-2408.