According to a report by the Vatican News on Friday, the Holy See press office released a statement that revealed the pope’s respiratory condition worsened due to an isolated bronchospasm. The pope was started on a non-invasive mechanical ventilation and is responding.
"The Holy Father, this afternoon, after a morning spent alternating between respiratory physiotherapy and prayer in the chapel, experienced an isolated episode of bronchospasm. This caused an episode of vomiting, which led to him inhaling some and a sudden worsening of his respiratory condition,” the statement said. The Holy Father was promptly subjected to bronchial aspiration (to clear his airways) and was put on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which improved his oxygen levels.
Despite the intervention, the Vatican said his prognosis remains "guarded.” Earlier in the day, Pope Francis received the Eucharist.
His latest health setback comes amid ongoing treatment for pneumonia, and 24 to 48 hours following the isolated bronchospasm will be critical in assessing his recovery. The pontiff has been admitted since February 14. Prior to the recent incident, doctors had been providing increasingly positive reports over the last few days regarding his condition.
The Vatican has already made alternative plans for Ash Wednesday next week, indicating that Francis is expected to have a long road to recovery. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, a Vatican official, will preside over the ceremony in place of the pope. Additionally, the Vatican has changed his calendar of events by canceling a Holy Year event that was scheduled, according to the New York Post.
