Objective Observe the effect of Ribavirin on reducing the EV71 replication, inactivating EV71 and protecting the RD-A cells against the EV71 infection in vitro. Methods Using the EV71 isolated from Anhui Fuyang HFMD outbreak, the effect of Ribavirin on RD-A cells during the EV71 infection was observed. Results In the experiment of Ribavirin inhibiting the EV71 replication, comparing with the no-Ribavirin-dealed virus control group, the group of 1:640 dilution of Ribavirin delayed the CPE for 2 days, while the normal cell group was growing very well. In the experiment of protecting cell from EV71 infection, comparing with the no-Ribavirin-dealed virus control group, the group of 1:8 dilution of Ribavirin delayed the CPE for 4 days. In the experiment of Ribavirin effect on the inactivation of EV71, the group of 1:40 dilution of Ribavirin delayed the CPE for 2 days comparing with the virus control group. Conclusion Ribavirin could inhibit the replication of the EV71 and inactivate the EV71 in vitro. Additionally, Ribavirin could protect RD-A cells from EV 71 infection. The observation will contribute to EV71 infection control and quick medicine therapy.