ROME – Pope Francis experienced a new bronchospasm crisis on Friday as he continues to battle pneumonia at a hospital in Rome, the Vatican reported.
The 87-year-old pontiff, who has faced recurring health challenges in recent years, spent the morning alternating between respiratory physiotherapy and prayer in the hospital chapel.
“The Pope in the early afternoon today, after a morning spent alternating respiratory physiotherapy with prayer in the chapel, presented an isolated bronchospasm crisis which, however, determined an episode of vomiting with inhalation and a sudden worsening of the respiratory condition,” it said.
“The Pope was promptly broncho-aspirated and began non-invasive mechanical ventilation, with a good response on gas exchange.”
Despite the episode, the Pope remained alert and cooperative throughout the treatment.
Due to the severity of the situation, his prognosis remains guarded.
The Vatican also confirmed that Pope Francis received the Eucharist on Friday morning, maintaining his spiritual routine despite his fragile condition. (ANSA)
