Mystery shrouds the deaths of two young sisters in Rajshahi as they died within three days of each other due to an unknown virus. 

The 2-year-old Muntaha Marisha died Wednesday, while her sister Muftaul Mashiya (4 years and 9 months old) succumbed during treatment on Saturday (Feb 17).

Doctors at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH) suspect a viral infection but await confirmation from tests conducted in Dhaka. 

The girls' parents, Manjur Rahman and Poly Khatun, are under observation in isolation.

Initial suspicion falls on Nipah virus, though the parents deny any link. Consumption of unwashed plums before their illness raises concern, as the fruit can potentially transmit Nipah or other viral agents.

"Rapid progression of their illness limited treatment options," said Dr. Abu Hena Mostafa Kamal, ICU physician at RMCH. 

"Black spots appeared on their bodies before their deaths," added their mother, Poly.

Despite no reported Nipah deaths in Rajshahi this year, Dr. Kamal confirmed a viral cause. The incident underscores the urgency for identifying the virus and ensuring swift interventions for similar cases. The parents remain in isolation as the community awaits answers and grapples with this tragic loss.

BSDT: 1143 HRS, FEB 18, 2024
SMS