The Rhode Island State Board of Health requires that all animals that bite humans, or animals that receive bites of unknown origin, must be tested or quarantined to determine if the animal was rabid at the time of the bite. Even though an animal has been vaccinated, there is still a possibility that rabies may be contracted. The vaccine does reduce the risk to almost zero. However, because rabies is ultimately fatal to humans, it is imperative that we determine as soon as possible if the animal is infected. The quarantine is not a punishment, but rather a public health issue. Once humans contract rabies, there is no known cure.