“Vaccination against measles starts at one year, but Alinur got it at six months. I heard about possible complications, but he recovered quickly and developed well. We thought all our fears were behind us and didn’t even suspect that complications could manifest years later,” shares the sorrow of Meerim, Alinur's mother.
The first signs of the disease appeared in 2023. Just a few days before his fifth birthday, the boy began to complain of severe headaches. Currently, the illness has robbed him of the ability to speak.
“We were hospitalized in the neurology department of the 3rd children's hospital. Tests showed brain swelling, and the doctors diagnosed 'epilepsy.' During treatment, Alinur began to lose the use of his arms and legs. In the end, we spent a month and ten days in the hospital, but we were discharged because they could not help us,” the mother recounts.
Alinur had measles at six months. The consequence of the virus is a rare brain disease.
The parents did not immediately realize that the illness was a consequence of measles. Initially, they consulted many well-known pediatric neurologists in Bishkek, and then decided to fly to India.
“During his treatment, the doctors held consultations. Almost all the neurologists were aware of our condition, and no one wanted to take responsibility. Realizing that help would not be provided in Kyrgyzstan, we contacted foreign specialists and, after discharge, went to India. It was there that the exact diagnosis was made and the correct treatment began,” explains Meerim.
Alinur had measles at six months. The consequence of the virus is a rare brain disease.
Alinur had measles at six months. The consequence of the virus is a rare brain disease.
Alinur has been undergoing treatment for two years. His family dreams of him living without pain and regaining his speech and motor functions.
“It’s unbearable. I gave birth to a healthy child. He developed faster than his peers, ran, jumped, and spoke non-stop. And now he is confined to bed. It’s a pity that vaccination against measles starts only after one year. This disease has destroyed my son’s life and our entire family’s,” cries the mother.
Alinur had measles at six months. The consequence of the virus is a rare brain disease.
The family needs about $1,500 a month for treatment and rehabilitation. Alinur's father works as a taxi driver, and his mother cannot work because she needs to provide round-the-clock care for her son. The government pays her about 8,000 soms as a caregiver for a person with a disability, and Alinur also receives a similar benefit.
“We sold everything we could to help our son get back on his feet. We started fundraising when there was nothing left to sell or anyone to ask for help. So I hope for understanding from the people of Kyrgyzstan. We need your help; please, help us,” the mother appeals.
I really want my son to live and not know pain.
Alinur had measles at six months. The consequence of the virus is a rare brain disease.
Alinur had measles at six months. The consequence of the virus is a rare brain disease.
