ROSS River virus has been detected in mosquitoes in Anglesea as well as urban Mildura, expanding a warning from the state's north-west out to parts of the coast.
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Residents and visitors to Geelong and Victoria's Surf Coast and Bellarine Peninsula are also being advised to protect themselves against mosquito-born diseases.
The advice is for both Ross River virus and Barmah Forest virus.
Symptoms for both viruses include joint pain and stiffness, fatigue, rash, fever and headache.
"The best protection from these diseases is to avoid mosquito bites," the health advice said.
Suggestions included regularly using mosquito repellent containing picaridin or DEET on all exposed skin.
Other protective measures included wearing long, loose fitting clothing when outside and ensuring accommodation, including tents, was properly fitted with mosquito nettings or screens.
The previous warning was issued on December 18, after mosquitoes in urban Mildura were found to have been carrying Ross River virus.
The Department of Health and Human Services said recent weather and water conditions in the Surf Coast, Geelong and Bellarine Peninsula areas had been favourable to mosquito biting and breeding.
There is a risk of Ross River virus infection in all parts of Victoria where there are mosquitoes.
However, the department said the risk was greatest in rural and regional areas. Infection in outer metropolitan areas appeared to be rare.
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Emma D'Agostino
Covering general news and Bendigo council.
Covering general news and Bendigo council.
