Measles claims lives of twin toddlers in Chattogram

Two one-year-old twin brothers died within 12 days of each other after battling measles, despite receiving treatment at multiple hospitals in Chattogram, Dhaka and Narayanganj, leaving their family devastated in Mirsarai upazila of Chattogram.

The deceased were identified as Abdullah Al Noman and Abdullah Al Fahim, sons of Harunur Rashid and Israt Jahan of Takiyapara village in Khaiyachhara union.

Family members said the twins had been sick for nearly three months and were taken to different hospitals in search of better treatment. Despite medical efforts, both children eventually succumbed to complications linked to measles.

According to the family, Fahim first developed respiratory distress in March and was admitted to Chattogram Medical College Hospital, where doctors confirmed measles infection. He initially recovered but later relapsed with further complications. Shortly afterwards, similar symptoms appeared in his twin brother Noman, who was also diagnosed with measles.

Noman died on May 22 while undergoing treatment at Chattogram Medical College Hospital. Twelve days later, Fahim died while receiving treatment at a specialised hospital in Narayanganj after being transferred from Dhaka.

Their father, Harunur Rashid, who runs a small grocery shop locally, said he had spent over Tk 600,000 on treatment, borrowing money from relatives and acquaintances.

“I went wherever I heard there was better treatment. I borrowed money from everyone I knew. I don’t regret the expenses—only that I couldn’t save my sons,” he said, breaking down in tears.

The twins, born on April 16 last year, had become the centre of hope for the family, which now lives in deep grief and financial distress.

Locals said the family made continuous efforts to save the children despite severe financial hardship, but could not overcome the illness.