1 week Ago
Manuel Masalva, who is known for his role in "Narcos: Mexico," is in medical coma after contracting an aggressive bacterial infection following his recent trip to the Philippines. According to the Los Angeles Times , the 34-year-old actor is in a critical but stable condition in a hospital in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Citing his manager Jaime Jaramillo Espinosa, the CEO of Mexican management agency JIM Management, the Los Angeles Times reported that Masalva was in the Philippines before arriving in Dubai on March 18, where he "began to feel internal discomfort and pain which increased by the day.
" He underwent emergency surgery on March 26 after doctors identified the bacteria. The following day, the infection spread to his lungs, and he was immediately placed in a medically induced coma. "The doctors were able to identify the type of bacteria and administer the appropriate antibiotic he needs," Jaramillo Espinosa said.
"On the other hand, his respirator was lowered to 80%, which means that his lungs are reacting." Meanwhile, Masalva's family has launched a GoFundMe page to cover his treatment costs. In an Instagram post, Masalva's friend and fellow actor Mario Moran posted a video asking support for his beloved friend.
"My brother is fighting for his life far from home. I want to ask for your help in this very difficult moment," Morán said in Spanish, and translated into English by the Los Angeles Times. "As was made known yesterday, Manuel Masalva—who is one of my best friends [and] who is really like a brother to me—fell victim to an aggressive bacteria while he was on vacation.
This led to him being in an induced coma and now his situation continues to be delicate," he continued. "The medical costs are huge and in a country where everything is even more difficult. Any help, however small it may seem, can make a difference in this difficult moment.
If you are able to help, I would thank you with all of my heart." In another post, Moran expressed gratitude to everyone who sent in their donations and well wishes to Masalva. He also remained positive about Masalva's condition.
"He is a strong and young man. He is healthy," he said. "[His family and I] are certain that he is going to pull through and wake up.
" As seen on Masalva's Instagram posts, the Mexican actor spent some time on the beaches of Palawan in February and March. Masalva plays the role of Ramón Arellano Félix, an enforcer and high-ranking member of the Tijuana Cartel in "Narcos: Mexico." Aside from "Narcos: Mexico," he also starred in "The Secret of Greco Family," and "La Guzman," among others.
A post shared by Mario Mora?n (@_mariomoran) —Jade Veronique Yap/MGP, GMA Integrated News.
