ROME
Pope Francis experienced a temporary worsening of his respiratory condition on Friday afternoon following an isolated episode of bronchospasm, the Holy See Press Office announced.
The episode led to vomiting and some inhalation of fluids, which required immediate medical intervention.
“This caused an episode of vomiting, which led to him inhaling some and a sudden worsening of his respiratory condition,” Holy See Press office said in a statement.
Doctors at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital quickly performed bronchial aspiration to clear his airways and placed him on non-invasive mechanical ventilation. The treatment has helped stabilize his oxygen levels, and the Pope remains alert and cooperative with medical care.
The Vatican says his prognosis remains cautious, and further assessment over the next 24 to 48 hours will be crucial in determining his recovery. Earlier in the day, the Pope received the Eucharist.
Pope Francis has been hospitalized since February 14 due to bilateral pneumonia following a respiratory tract infection. The latest reports indicate that, the Pope’s gas exchange values have returned to pre-episode levels following medical interventions.
