What is a potential complication of untreated whooping cough?

Untreated whooping cough, also known as pertussis, can lead to several serious complications, with pneumonia being a primary concern. This disease is particularly dangerous for infants and young children, as their respiratory systems are still developing and can be significantly compromised by the infection. When the bacteria that cause whooping cough infect the respiratory tract, it can result in inflammation and excessive mucus production, leading to coughing fits and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, this can cause secondary bacterial infections in the lungs, resulting in pneumonia.

Pneumonia can significantly increase the risk of hospitalization and can be life-threatening, especially in vulnerable populations such as infants and those with weakened immune systems. This is why it's crucial for whooping cough to be treated promptly with antibiotics to reduce symptoms and the risk of complications.

While other complications of whooping cough might include issues like rib fractures from severe coughing or dehydration, pneumonia is one of the most common and serious outcomes, making it a critical aspect of understanding the disease's potential consequences.