What should be done immediately if a domestic animal not currently vaccinated against rabies bites a human?

When a domestic animal that has not been vaccinated against rabies bites a human, the proper course of action is to vaccinate the animal and place it in quarantine. This is critical for several reasons.

First, rabies is a serious viral disease that can be fatal if transmitted to humans; therefore, it is essential to assess the animal's health and infectious status. Vaccination helps to prevent the possible transmission of rabies if the animal was exposed to the virus before the bite incident.

Placing the animal in quarantine allows for close observation of its health over a designated period, usually 10 days, during which symptoms of rabies might develop if the animal were infected. This approach ensures that public health is protected while concurrently providing an opportunity for the animal to be monitored safely.

The decision to vaccinate is crucial because it not only helps in preventing rabies in the event the animal becomes infected but also fulfills health protocols in managing such incidents involving non-vaccinated animals. Quarantine serves as a safety measure, allowing authorities to track any potential developments in the animal's health without risking further exposure to humans or other animals during that time.