Mosquitoes found in Marion and Rochester have tested positive for the Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE) according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

The mosquitoes were collected from samples taken from northern Rochester and an area in Marion's northwest section on Aug. 12.

"The state is advising that people take personal precautions and use insect repellent with DEET and to avoid mosquitoes when possible," said Marion-Rochester Health District Agent Karen Walega.

The peak hours for mosquito activity are from dusk to dawn. To combat the spread of the disease, Plymouth County Mosquito has been spraying areas where the mosquitoes were found.

The agency will perform a town-wide spray in Marion and Rochester Wednesday, Aug. 20. Walega said residents should keep their windows closed that evening. If residents would like their yards sprayed mosquito control can be reached at 781-585-5450.

She also cautioned Rochester Country Fair attendees to take precautions against mosquito bites after a deer was found infected with EEE in Freetown. The fair started Thursday and ends on Sunday.

The Massachusetts Department of Health noted this was the first case of a mammal testing positive for the virus this year. As a result, Freetown’s EEE risk level is now “high.”

Walega said signs have been posted at the Country Fair reminding people to cover up and use insect repellent when attending events to avoid infection.

The mosquito-borne illness can cause inflammation of the brain. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, though EEE is rare in humans, the mortality rate is approximately 33 percent.

There have been no human cases of West Nile virus or EEE reported this year. Last year, there was one case of EEE acquired by a Massachusetts resident. EEE is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.

For more information about EEE and reports of current and historical virus activity, visit www.mass.gov/dph/wnv.

Click on the link below for a list of actions the Department of Health recommends to avoid mosquito bites.