The disease is troublesome but rarely serious in older children and adults, except in the aged. The most frequent complications are respiratory, including asphyxia in infants. Bronchopneumonia is also a frequent complication in the aged and may be fatal at any age. Interstitial and subcutaneous emphysema and pneumothorax are infrequent consequences of the increased intrathoracic pressure during paroxysms. Bronchiectasis, particularly in debilitated children, and residual emphysema can result.
Convulsions are common in infants but rare in older children.
Hemorrhag into the brain, eyes, skin and mucous membranes can result from severe paroxysms and consequent anoxia. Otitis media is frequent. Prophylaxis Active immunization is given routinely to most children combined with diphtheria, tetanus and polio regime. Passive immunization is unreliable and is not recommended. Treatment Hospitalization is recommended for seriously ill infants because expert nursing care is important.