Camera does not start, no picture in viewfinder - E40 message

Camera does not start, no picture in viewfinder - E40 message

When taking pictures in wet conditions the camera just stopped working. I have let it dry out for six hours, removed the battery and memory card. On trying it out after this period a message came up - E40. I can't get the camera to work. There is no picture in the viewfinder and the camera lens withdraws back as soon as i try to restart.