Michael Portillo and Anne Diamond halted to report on Pope Francis’ latest health issue which involved an “isolated breathing crisis.”
“The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis suffered from an isolated breathing crisis, as his condition has continued to fluctuate in hospital,” he said.
“It sounds as though he didn’t have a very good night,” co-host Anne Diamond commented. “In a statement, a Vatican official has revealed that the Pope is currently alert, but his prognosis remains guarded,” she said.
This overnight statement came in advance of the usual morning updates given by the Vatican about the 88-year-old Pontiff’s health since he was initally admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 after experiencing breathing difficulties for several days.
Although initially treated for bronchitis, he was later diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. Pope Francis had part of a lung removed in his youth due to pleurisy, and so is particularly vulnerable to respiratory infections. This hospitalisation follows previous health concerns, including treatment for bronchitis at the same hospital in March 2023.
Pope Francis remains in hospital where he has been since February 14 (Image: Getty)
Following the update they cut to reporter Alina Trabattoni in Rome who further explained the Pope’s current health status.
“We’re waiting for the next medical bulletin, which is expected any moment now. It’s traditionally sent out at around 8 or 9 o’clock in the morning…
“As you say, we were informed last night that during the course of the day yesterday (he) had suffered a breathing crisis involving vomit as well.
“It’s a lot of information being provided, and that speaks to the way that Pope Francis has asked for his health condition to be managed, in that he has asked for transparency and information to be provided on developments.
“Yesterday during the day, he had spent the day alternating respiratory training, as he had had a quite severe asthmatic breathing crisis last Friday, with prayer in the chapel.
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