Minden, Nevada, August 9, 2025
News Summary
The Douglas County School District has closed several properties due to a bat infestation that raises health concerns after rabies and histoplasmosis spores were detected. Affected locations include the district office, a dog park, and nearby playgrounds. Although the school district reports a low public risk, immediate safety measures are underway. Staff have relocated to Gardnerville Elementary School as pest control conducts a removal strategy. Residents are advised to avoid bats and stay updated through the district’s official website.
Minden, Nevada – The Douglas County School District has closed several properties due to a significant bat infestation that poses potential health risks after bats in the area tested positive for rabies and fungal spores linked to histoplasmosis, a respiratory infection. The affected location is 1638 Mono Avenue, prompting immediate precautions to safeguard the health and safety of staff and visitors.
The school district has closed the district office, a dog park on County Road, and the playground and basketball court adjacent to the district office. These closures follow reports from staff about a strong odor and sightings of bats exiting the building, indicating that the bats were likely residing within the walls of the district office.
While the Douglas County School District has stated that the risk to the public remains low, they emphasize that exposure to bats can lead to serious health concerns. Fortunately, no staff members have had direct contact with the bats, and the district is collaborating with pest control to implement a removal strategy for the bats and to clean the affected areas.
As part of the ongoing management of this situation, various departments within the district office have been temporarily relocated to Gardnerville Elementary School located at 1290 Toler Ave. These departments include Superintendent, Business Services, Human Resources, Accounts, Grants, AGPM, and front desk services. Meanwhile, Education Services, Inclusive Education, and Communications will operate from the historic Gardnerville Elementary School building.
With the understanding that rabies in bats presents a health risk to both humans and domestic animals, residents are advised to avoid handling bats and disturbing areas contaminated with bat droppings. Additionally, pet owners are encouraged to keep their pets leashed and away from potential wildlife encounters. The Douglas County School District will continue to provide updates via their official website, www.dcsd.net.
According to the Nevada Department of Agriculture, bat activity tends to increase from May to October, with an annual average of 10 to 20 confirmed cases of bat rabies in the state. In 2025, cases of positive rabies in bats were recorded in both Carson City and Washoe County. To counteract risks, the public is encouraged to ensure that their pets are up to date on rabies vaccinations, as transmission is possible from bats to humans and domestic animals. Should individuals believe they have been in contact with bats or their droppings, seeking guidance from medical or veterinary professionals is strongly advised.
In light of this ongoing situation, the Douglas County School District is taking proactive measures to ensure the well-being of its community while managing the infestation and associated health risks.
FAQ
Why were the Douglas County School District properties closed?
Properties were closed due to a bat infestation which led to positive tests for rabies and fungal spores causing histoplasmosis.
What areas are affected by the closures?
The district office, a dog park on County Road, and the adjacent playground and basketball court have been closed.
What should residents do if they see bats or bat droppings?
Residents are advised not to handle bats or disturb areas with bat droppings. It is also recommended to keep pets leashed and away from wildlife.
How can the public stay informed about updates?
Updates regarding the situation will be provided on the Douglas County School District’s official website.
Key Features of the Bat Infestation Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Bats Testing Positive for Rabies | Confirmed presence of rabies and histoplasmosis spores. |
| Affected Locations | District office, dog park, playground, basketball court. |
| Precautionary Measures | Areas closed to ensure public health and safety. |
| Staff Relocation | Departments moved to Gardnerville Elementary School. |
| Public Recommendations | Avoid handling bats, keep pets leashed, and stay informed. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- KOLO TV: Bats Force Closure of Some Douglas County School District Properties
- Wikipedia: Bats
- Record Courier: Bat Infestation Closes Douglas School Administration Building
- Google Search: Bat Infestation
- Record Courier: Bat with Rabies Confirmed in Carson City
- Google Scholar: Rabies in Bats
- 2 News: Bats Found Prompt Temporary Closure of Douglas County School District Office Property
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rabies
- Los Angeles Times: Create a Bat Habitat Garden
- Google News: Bats in Nevada
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