After experiencing progressive improvement the past few days, Pope Francis experienced “an isolated crisis of bronchospasm” which led to coughing and “vomiting with inhalation,” which worsened his respiratory condition, the Vatican said.

Pope Francis, who has been battling pneumonia for two weeks, has had an "isolated" breathing crisis in hospital, the Vatican has said. It led to an episode of vomiting with inhalation and "sudden worsening of his respiratory condition" on Friday following the "bronchospasm".

The Vatican press office has released a statement saying the pope had a peaceful evening of rest in hospital and is continuing his recovery in the hospital on Friday.