Vatican City: Pope Francis suffered an isolated episode of bronchospasm on February 28, causing vomiting and a deterioration in his respiratory condition, Vatican News reported.

The Holy Father inhaled some of the vomit, leading to a sudden worsening of his condition. He was immediately subjected to bronchial aspiration to clear his airways and placed on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which improved his oxygen levels.

Vatican provides health update

On Wednesday evening, the Holy See Press Office issued an update, stating that Pope Francis' condition had shown a "slight further improvement" over the past 24 hours. The mild kidney insufficiency observed in recent days had subsided. A chest CT scan conducted on February 28 indicated normal lung inflammation progression, while blood tests confirmed continued improvement.

"The Holy Father remains on high-flow oxygen therapy but has not experienced any asthma-like respiratory episodes today. Respiratory physiotherapy is continuing. Despite the slight improvement, his prognosis remains guarded. This morning, the Holy Father received the Eucharist, and in the afternoon, he resumed his work," the statement read.

Anxious wait for updates on Pope's health

The faithful in Rome and the Vatican are relying on their faith as they await news on Pope Francis' health. The Vatican has repeatedly described his condition as "complex" and his prognosis as "reserved," indicating uncertainty. While there have been signs of "slight improvement," his condition was still deemed "critical" until Tuesday, CNN reported.

This marks Pope Francis' fourth and longest hospital stay since he assumed the papacy in 2013. The church's central administration remains on high alert, monitoring developments closely.

Pope Francis, known for his unpredictability, has not disclosed any plans regarding his health, leaving the world in suspense. In Rome, the phrase "montagne russe"—meaning "rollercoaster"—is being used to describe the tense atmosphere surrounding the Pope’s condition, CNN reported.

With ANI inputs