4. exclusion of other causes of acute hepatitis 4. Confirmed HIV infection 5. Receiving a atazanavir- or efavirenz- or raltegravir-based ART regimen or able to switch regimen to these agents with an undetectable HIV viral load for at least 3 months, or not receiving ART with no immediate plans to start ART during the first 6 months of study 6. CD4 T cell count >200/µl at screening in patients under ART, CD4 T cell count >500/µl at screening in patients without ART 7. If female and of childbearing potential, is using effective birth control methods (as agreed by the investigator) and is willing to continue practising these birth control methods during the trial and for at least 4 months after the last dosage of ribavirin (ie 4 months after week 12, 24 or 48, depending on study arm and treatment response). Routine monthly pregnancy tests must also be performed during this time. Note: Women who are postmenopausal for least 2 years, women with total hysterectomy, and women who have a tubal ligation are considered of non-childbearing potential 8. Heterosexually active male participants or their female partners must use effective birth control methods (as agreed by the investigator) during the trial and for at least 7 months after the last dosage of ribavirin (ie 7 months after week 12, 24 or 48, depending on study arm and treatment response).