UPDATE ON POPEFRANCIS’ HEALTH

Vatican City - The Holy Father, Pope Francis, who has been confined at the Gemelli Hospital since February 14 due to Pneumonia suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency last March 3 -17 days since his hospitalization. Two bronchoscopies were done while copious secretions were aspirated as well. Although the Holy Father continues to be afebrile, alert and conscious, his prognosis remains guarded. During the morning, he receives supplemental oxygen via high-flow oxygen therapy and at night, he is on non-invasive mechanical ventilation. Pope Francis continues his respiratory physiotherapy as well. There have been no reports of recurrence of previous episodes of anemia, thrombocytopenia and acute kidney injury.