Family ends up in hospital after chasing a bat. Rabies vaccinations are increasing

An increasing number of Czech citizens are opting for rabies vaccinations, driven by heightened concerns about the potentially fatal infection. While the risk of contracting rabies in the country does exist, the main threat does not come from foxes or dogs as commonly believed.

Instead, bats are identified as the primary vectors for the rabies virus in the region. This has led to dozens of people seeking medical attention this year alone after encounters with these nocturnal creatures.

In a recent incident, a family in Ústí, including parents and a child, required hospitalization after attempting to remove a bat from their apartment. They reportedly sustained contact with the bat by using their bare hands, a practice experts strongly caution against. Health officials emphasize the importance of avoiding direct contact with bats and seeking immediate medical advice if such an encounter occurs.