BOSTON -- Mosquitoes infected with West Nile virus were found in Worcester, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health announced Wednesday.

The mosquito sample was collected on June 27. It was the first time this year that the virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Massachusetts for the first time this year.

Last year, there were six human cases of the virus. Two of the cases involved Worcester residents.

The virus is usually transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Symptoms can range from mild flu-like illness to inflammation of the brain, coma and even death.

"Mosquitoes can carry disease," said Dr. Al DeMaria, epidemiologist for the Department of Public Health. "We want residents to take some simple steps to protect themselves this holiday weekend and throughout the summer months."

DeMaria said that the recent rains and hot weather have increased mosquito populations.