Manuel Masalva is reportedly “fighting for his life” in an “induced coma” after he contracted a bacterial infection while abroad.
The Narcos: Mexico star, 34, is recovering away from home, his friend, Mario Morán, revealed in a TikTok video uploaded on April 3. The LA Times has reported that the actor is hospitalized in Dubai.
“My brother is fighting for his life far away from home,” Morán, 32, said in Spanish.
He added that Masalva “fell victim to a very aggressive virus” while on vacation. He did not reveal exactly where he was when the star, who played Ramon Arellano Felix in the show, contracted the infection. However, the LA Times has reported that he could have been infected during his recent trip to the Philippines.
“This led him to an induced coma,” Morán continued. “As of today, his situation remains delicate.”
Everything we know about Manuel Masalva's health as the actor currently fights for his life in a hospital abroad:
Manuel Masalva's friend has since launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds for his friend and any unanticipated hotel bills he might incur as he continues to “fight for his life.”
“The medical costs are enormous, and in a country where everything is more difficult, any help, no matter how small, can make the difference in this very difficult moment,” Morán said. “If you can contribute, we thank you with our entire hearts.”
The GoFundMe page states that while Manuel Masalva is currently in critical condition, the “bacteria” have “already been detected." Per the LA Times, the actor's manager, Jaime Jaramillo, revealed
“[After] about two days in Dubai, Masalva began to feel internal discomfort and pain which increased by the day."
On March 26, Manuel Masalva had to undergo emergency surgery when doctors discovered the bacteria, preventing him from going back home to Mexico. The following day, the infection reached his lungs, causing him to be put into a medically induced coma.
“On Monday, 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.”
The GoFundMe post, written in Spanish, reads as follows when translated:
“He’s on antibiotics, and we’re waiting for him to begin to improve.”
The goal has been set to 1 million Mexican Pesos, and as of Friday, April 4, the fundraising initiative has raised well over its goal of $50K.
The post continued, “Many thanks to everyone who has donated so far; your generosity and support are crucial during this difficult time for Manuel and his loved ones. We deeply appreciate the generosity of acquaintances, friends, and family.”
It concludes,
“Thank you for continuing to share this campaign on your social media so we can reach more people who can help. Together, we can make a huge difference for Manuel and provide him with the strength and support he needs to recover.”
In the Netflix Spinoff, Manuel Masalva played Ramón Arellano Félix. He starred alongside prolific actors like Michael Peña, Scoot McNairy, and Diego Luna. However, the actor is also known for working in other Mexican series like La Guzmán and Tengo Que Morir Todas Las Noches.

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