The Pope has had 'two episodes of acute respiratory failure', Vatican says

The Pope has had two episodes of "acute respiratory failure", the Vatican has said.

The 88-year-old has been in hospital since 14 February with a severe respiratory infection that triggered other complications.

The Vatican said the respiratory failures were caused by "significant accumulation" of mucus in his lungs and a "bronchospasm", akin to an asthma attack.

Doctors were then required to perform two bronchoscopies - a test which sees doctors use a long, thin, telescope with a light to look into the lungs - to evaluate the Pope's air passages, the statement said.

"In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed," The Vatican continued. "The Holy Father has always remained vigilant, oriented and collaborative. The prognosis remains reserved."

Vatican sources said the situation had been calm this morning, before it got worse this afternoon.

The respiratory issues Francis suffered today are due to an ongoing infection, but he is not out of danger, they added.

Asked if the Pope is in good spirits, they gave no answer. When asked if the Vatican's apartment is getting ready to welcome Francis back, the source said it was too premature to discuss this.

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