Man dies due to Murray Valley encephalitis

“We can confirm the third confirmed case of Murray Valley encephalitis virus in Victoria this season passed away earlier this month,” a Department of Health spokesperson said.

“The man in his 70s was potentially exposed to infected mosquitoes in the Shire of Campaspe.

“We send our deepest condolences to his family.”

His death follows that of a woman in her 60s, who died in February.

She was most likely exposed to infected mosquitoes in Greater Bendigo, but also spent time in Swan Hill during her acquisition period.

The Department of Health said people in areas experiencing increased mosquito activity should continue to take steps to protect themselves against mosquito bites by wearing long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, using insect repellents, removing stagnant water around their home, and avoiding the outdoors when mosquitoes were observed, especially at dusk and dawn.