Mexican actor Manuel Masalva, known for his role in Netflix's "Narcos: Mexico," is currently in a medically induced coma in Dubai after contracting a severe bacterial infection during travels in the Philippines.
The 34-year-old actor was admitted to a Dubai hospital after experiencing internal pain and discomfort. Despite emergency surgery on March 26, the infection spread to his lungs the following day, according to his manager Jaime Jaramillo Espinosa.
Medical teams have since identified the specific bacteria and begun targeted antibiotic treatment. While Masalva remains in critical condition, doctors report his status as stable.
Fellow actor and close friend Mario Morán shared updates on social media, describing Masalva's situation as "delicate" while requesting support for mounting medical expenses. "My brother is fighting for his life far from home," Morán stated in a video message.
A GoFundMe campaign launched by Masalva's family has raised over 1.05 million Mexican pesos (approximately $50,000) to help cover hospital costs in Dubai.
Masalva portrayed Ramón Arellano Félix in "Narcos: Mexico" from 2018 to 2021. His acting credits include Spanish-language series "La Rosa De Guadalupe," "La Guzmán," and most recently "Tengo Que Morir Todas Las Noches."
His manager remains optimistic about recovery, noting Masalva's youth and previous good health. "He is a strong and young man... [We] are certain that he is going to pull through and wake up," Espinosa said.