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WA Launches Mosquito Repellent Initiative After MVE Death
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Following the tragic death of Peter from Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE), Western Australia is rolling out a new initiative to combat mosquito-borne illnesses. The program aims to provide free mosquito repellent in high-risk areas to protect residents and travelers.
Kununurra before his death from MVE. source: WA Government
Mosquitos ‘never bothered’ Peter prior to death
During their last trip, Sonia, Peter’s wife, noticed no unusual signs.She mentioned that while she is often bitten by mosquitoes, “Pete never said mosquitoes really bothered him. There wasn’t a particular bite on him that we were aware of.”
“Prevent bites – it’s the only way,”
The free repellent dispensers will be placed in caravan parks, sporting clubs, outdoor cinemas, and other alfresco venues, targeting the “grey nomad” season when older travelers visit the north. This demographic is considered notably susceptible to mosquito-borne diseases.
The initiative will initially launch across the Kimberley, Pilbara, and Gascoyne regions, with a state-wide rollout planned for 2026. Despite winter typically being a lower-risk period, 2025 has seen unusual activity, prompting increased preventative measures.
