Which complication may indicate that an infant with RSV requires Ribavirin treatment?

Ribavirin is an antiviral medication that is used specifically in cases of severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, particularly in infants and those with compromised immune systems. The presence of cardiac problems in an infant with RSV can signal a more severe or complicated case of the illness.

When RSV leads to complications such as respiratory failure or other cardiac issues, it indicates that the infant is experiencing significant morbidity and may not be able to adequately manage the infection on their own. Ribavirin can help reduce the viral load and alleviate symptoms associated with severe RSV infections, making it a viable treatment option in these circumstances. It is important to note that other symptoms such as minor respiratory discomfort, fever, or allergic reactions do not necessarily indicate the need for Ribavirin treatment, as they can be more common occurrences in viral infections without escalation of care. In contrast, the severity of cardiac problems directly correlates with the need for intensive intervention like antiviral therapy to prevent further complications.