Minden, Nevada, August 9, 2025
News Summary
The Douglas County School District has closed several properties in Minden, Nevada, following a bat infestation where bats tested positive for rabies and fungal spores linked to histoplasmosis. The closure, primarily a precautionary measure, affects the district office, a dog park, and adjacent playground and basketball court. The district is working with pest control to address the situation while ensuring staff and public health safety. Residents are advised to avoid handling bats and seek medical help if exposed.
Minden, Nevada – The Douglas County School District has taken decisive action by closing several properties due to a significant bat infestation at 1638 Mono Avenue, where bats have tested positive for rabies as well as for fungal spores associated with histoplasmosis, a serious respiratory infection. This closure is largely considered a precautionary measure intended to protect the health of staff and visitors while investigations and pest control efforts are underway.
The areas affected by this closure include the district office, the dog park located on County Road, and the playground and basketball court adjacent to the district office. The decision to close these facilities was prompted by staff reports of a strong odor, as well as sightings of bats exiting the building, leading to the discovery of bats residing within the walls of the district office.
Although the school district emphasizes that the risk to the public remains low, any potential exposure to these bats can lead to serious health concerns, including the risk of rabies and the effects of histoplasmosis. Fortunately, reports confirm that no staff members have had direct contact with the bats at this time.
The Douglas County School District is collaborating with pest control experts to safely remove the bats and thoroughly clean the affected areas to prevent any further health risks. In the meantime, various departments from the district office have been temporarily relocated to nearby Gardnerville Elementary School, located at 1290 Toler Ave. These departments include Superintendent, Business Services, Human Resources, Accounts, Grants, as well as front desk services. Additionally, the Education Services, Inclusive Education, and Communications departments have been moved to the historic Gardnerville Elementary School building.
In light of the bat infestation, residents are advised to avoid handling bats or disturbing any areas that may contain bat droppings. Keeping pets leashed and away from wildlife is also strongly recommended. It is crucial for anyone who suspects they may have come into contact with bats or bat droppings to seek prompt medical or veterinary assistance.
According to the Nevada Department of Agriculture, bat activity typically peaks between May and October, with an average of 10 to 20 confirmed cases of bat rabies reported annually in the state. Prior positive rabies cases were observed in bat populations in Carson City and Washoe County during 2025. Maintaining rabies vaccinations for pets is additionally encouraged, as the disease can be transmitted from bats to both humans and domestic animals.
For the latest updates and additional information regarding this closure and health guidelines, residents can visit the Douglas County School District’s website at www.dcsd.net.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What prompted the closure of the Douglas County School District properties?
The closure was prompted by a bat infestation detected at 1638 Mono Avenue, where bats tested positive for rabies and fungal spores causing histoplasmosis.
Which areas are currently closed to the public?
Closed areas include the district office, the dog park on County Road, and the playground and basketball court next to the district office.
Is there any risk to the public?
While the risk to the public is deemed low, exposure to the bats can pose serious health concerns, including rabies and histoplasmosis.
What actions is the school district taking in response to the bat infestation?
The district is working with pest control to remove the bats and clean the affected areas thoroughly.
Where have district departments been relocated during this time?
Departments have been temporarily moved to Gardnerville Elementary School, with various services operating from different locations within the school.
What should residents do if they encounter bats or bat droppings?
Residents should avoid handling bats, not disturb areas with bat droppings, and seek medical or veterinary assistance if they believe they may have been exposed.
Key Features of the Bat Infestation Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | 1638 Mono Avenue, Minden, Nevada |
| Health Risks | Rabies and Histoplasmosis |
| Areas Closed | District Office, Dog Park, Playground, Basketball Court |
| Pest Control | Engaged for removal and cleaning |
| Temporary Relocation | Gardnerville Elementary School |
| Public Advisory | Avoid bats and bat droppings; Seek medical assistance if exposed |
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 HOUSTON TX WRITER
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