News Summary
The Douglas County School District has temporarily closed several facilities after a bat infestation was discovered in Minden, Nevada. Bats tested positive for rabies and fungal spores associated with histoplasmosis prompted these precautionary measures to protect the community. The affected site includes the district office and a local dog park. Health officials stress the importance of avoiding contact with bats and maintaining rabies vaccinations for pets. The district is working with pest control to ensure safety and sanitation at the affected locations.
Douglas County, Nevada — School District Closes Properties Due to Bat Infestation and Rabies Risks
The Douglas County School District has temporarily closed several properties after discovering a bat infestation at a location in Minden, Nevada. The district is taking these actions as a precautionary measure following the identification of bats that tested positive for rabies and fungal spores associated with histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease.
Details of the Closure
The affected site is located at 1638 Mono Avenue in Minden. In response to the situation, the district has closed multiple facilities, including the district office, a local dog park on County Road, and a playground along with a basketball court adjacent to the district office. These closures are intended to safeguard staff, students, visitors, and community members from potential health risks.
Cause of Closure and Response Measures
The decision was made after district staff reported noticing a strong odor emanating from the building and observing bats leaving the premises. Investigations confirmed that the bats had taken up residence within the walls of the district office. While no staff members have reported direct contact with the bats, health officials emphasize that exposure to rabies or fungal spores can pose serious health concerns.
Health Risks and Testing
Bats found at the site tested positive for rabies, a deadly viral disease transmitted through bites or scratches, which can affect both humans and animals. Additionally, tests identified the presence of fungal spores linked to histoplasmosis, a respiratory infection caused by inhaling spores often associated with bat droppings.
District’s Response and Assistance
The school district stated it is actively working with pest control professionals to remove the bats and thoroughly clean the affected areas. As a part of the response, staff from the district’s main office have been temporarily relocated to Gardnerville Elementary School, located at 1290 Toler Ave in Gardnerville. The departments moved include Business Services, Human Resources, Accounts, Grants, the Administrative General Program Management (AGPM), and front desk services. Education Services, Inclusive Education, and Communications staff will operate from the historic Gardnerville Elementary School building.
Community Advisory and Safety Precautions
Residents are advised to avoid handling bats or disturbing areas with bat droppings. It is also recommended to keep pets leashed and away from wildlife habitats. People who suspect they may have come into contact with bats, bat droppings, or contaminated areas are urged to seek immediate medical or veterinary advice.
Additional Context and Rabies Season
The Nevada Department of Agriculture notes that bat activity tends to increase from May through October. Annually, there are approximately 10 to 20 confirmed cases of bat rabies in Nevada. Previously, in 2025, rabies-positive bat populations were detected in Carson City and Washoe County, indicating ongoing risks within the region.
Preventive Measures and Public Health Recommendations
The health authorities emphasize the importance of maintaining rabies vaccinations for pets as a vital protective measure. Rabies can be transmitted from infected bats to domestic animals and humans, making vaccination a critical safeguard. If individuals believe they have been exposed to bats or bat droppings, they should seek prompt medical evaluation and treatment to prevent potential infection.
Ongoing Updates
The Douglas County School District has committed to providing further updates through its official website, www.dcsd.net. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and follow safety advisories issued by health authorities and the school district.
This incident highlights the common seasonal presence of bats and the importance of early detection and prompt response to minimize health risks associated with rabies and other zoonotic diseases.
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
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
