News Summary
In response to a bat infestation that tested positive for rabies, the Douglas County School District has temporarily closed several facilities in Minden, Nevada. Affected areas include the district office, a dog park, and local playgrounds. The closures aim to protect public health as staff observed bats leaving the district office, leading to a comprehensive inspection and subsequent pest control measures. Although the risk to the public remains low, residents are advised to avoid interaction with bats and keep their pets contained.
Douglas County, Nevada – School District Closes Properties After Bat Infestation Tests Positive for Rabies
The Douglas County School District has temporarily closed several properties in response to a bat infestation discovered at 1638 Mono Avenue in Minden, Nevada. This action was taken after bats found in the area tested positive for rabies and fungal spores associated with histoplasmosis, a respiratory disease.
Details of the Closure and Affected Areas
In an effort to protect public health, the district has closed multiple facilities including the district office, the dog park on County Road, and the playground and basketball court adjacent to the district office. The closures are precautionary measures aimed at limiting exposure risks for staff and visitors.
The decision to shut down the district office came after staff reported a strong odor and observed bats leaving the building. Further inspections revealed that the bats had taken residence within the walls of the facility. To date, no staff members have had direct contact with the bats, but the district is taking steps to mitigate potential health hazards.
Response and Safety Measures
The school district has engaged pest control experts to remove the bats safely and to thoroughly clean affected areas. Meanwhile, district operations have been temporarily relocated to nearby facilities. Departments from the district office, including Business Services, Human Resources, Accounts, Grants, and the front desk, have moved to Gardnerville Elementary School located at 1290 Toler Ave.
Moreover, Education Services, Inclusive Education, and Communications offices are now operating out of the historic Gardnerville Elementary School building. This measures helps ensure continuity of administrative and educational services during the intervention period.
Public Advisory and Preventive Guidance
The district emphasizes that the risk to the general population remains low, but advises community members to take precautions. Residents are cautioned to avoid handling bats, especially if found in or near their properties. Disturbing areas with bat droppings or nesting sites should also be avoided. Pet owners are encouraged to keep their animals leashed and away from wildlife, particularly bats, to prevent potential transmission of rabies.
Background and Context
Bat activity tends to increase in Nevada from May through October. The Nevada Department of Agriculture reports that annually, there are typically 10 to 20 cases of rabies confirmed in bat populations across the state. Prior to this incident, positive rabies cases in bats had been identified in neighboring counties such as Carson City and Washoe County in 2025.
Given the rabies risk, health authorities recommend that pets be kept vaccinated against rabies. Rabies can be transmitted from infected bats to humans and other domestic animals, posing serious health risks. Anyone suspecting they’ve come into contact with bats or bat droppings should seek medical or veterinary assistance promptly.
Ongoing Monitoring and Updates
The school district commits to keeping the public informed through regular updates on their official website, www.dcsd.net. Officials continue to monitor the situation and coordinate with pest control and health agencies to ensure safe reoccupation of the affected areas once the bat removal and cleanup are complete.
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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 WASHINGTON DC
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