Family Sues Nevada Casino After Bat Exposure Leads to Rabies Shots

A family is suing the Nugget casino in Sparks, Nevada, after multiple family members were exposed to a bat, which was not tested for rabies, resulting in 10 people receiving emergency rabies shots, following health officials' advice. The case dates back to the July 4 weekend in 2025, with a complaint filed on July 1 in Washoe County, and outlines the events. According to the plaintiffs, they informed a desk employee about the bat exposure, which led to the casino staff capturing and releasing the rodent without first testing it for rabies.

The plaintiffs had to undergo the full vaccination course to prevent the lethal disease, which must be treated before symptoms appear, arguing that by releasing the bat, the casino has denied the family the opportunity to find out if they have been exposed.

In their complaint, the plaintiffs said that the vaccinations they received were both painful and time-consuming and have led to side effects, seeking more than $15,000 in damages. The complaint now seeks to claim this much money from the casino along with any punitive damages applicable and attorney’s fees.