Whooping cough causes intense coughing fits that can lead to vomiting, exhaustion, and breathing difficulties. It's most dangerous for infants and young children, and early treatment matters.
One of the most serious symptoms of whooping cough in infants is apnea. The word refers to an unusual cessation of breathing after a coughing fit, right after which the whooping sound can be heard. In infants, apnea can occur when the nervous system and respiratory muscles are overwhelmed by repeated coughing fits. It is one of the most serious complications of whooping cough in newborns and young infants, and a key reason why early medical attention matters for this age group.

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