The woman in her sixties who died from Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE) virus last month was most likely exposed to infected mosquitos in Greater Bendigo.
The state’s health department has issued a statement stating a total of three cases and two deaths have been recorded this mosquito season.
The virus, which severely effects less than one per cent of people, includes symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting and muscle aches.
In very rare cases of MVE, people can develop seizures, loss of consciousness and drowsiness.
Residents are being reminded to take precautions against mosquito bites by wearing appropraite repellent and avoiding outdoor areas at dusk and dawn.
Image: Angela Handfest on Unsplash