Pope suffers another acute respiratory insufficiency

The Holy See Press Office on Monday evening disclosed that Pope Francis suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency caused by an accumulation of mucus.

According to the Press Office, the Pope’s blood test values are unchanged, and suggest that he does not have leukocytosis (a high white blood cell count).

It discloses that the outcome of the test suggests that there is no new infection, and the accumulation of mucus is merely the consequence of the Pope’s pre-existing pneumonia.

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According to the Press Office, the cause of the Monday attacks was the reaction of the bronchi, which attempted to expel the accumulated mucus in order to eliminate the bacteria.

Accordingly, it stated that the Pope’s clinical condition remains complex, and further crises such as those that occurred earlier on Monday are possible.

The Press Office has been updating the world twice daily on Pope Francis’ health condition as he continues his treatment at Rome’s Gemelli hospital.

“Today, the Holy Father suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm.

“Two bronchoscopies were therefore performed, with the need to remove large secretions.

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“In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed. The Holy Father remained alert, oriented and cooperative at all times.

“The prognosis remains guarded,” the Press office said in a release on Monday evening.