Pope Francis remains in a delicate health condition following two episodes of “acute respiratory failure” on Monday afternoon, the Vatican confirmed. Doctors intervened to help clear mucus from the Pope’s lungs, although the Holy See reported that the 88-year-old pontiff was alert throughout the procedure.
The Pope has resumed using an oxygen mask and ventilator to aid his breathing, but he remains “alert, focused, and cooperative,” according to the Vatican. This marks the third significant health scare since he was admitted to the hospital 18 days ago due to pneumonia.
Earlier, on Friday, Pope Francis faced an “isolated” breathing crisis that involved vomiting, though he responded well to oxygen therapy. By Sunday, it was reported that he no longer required “non-invasive mechanical ventilation” and was only using high-flow oxygen therapy. However, after Monday’s episodes, mechanical ventilation has been reintroduced as part of his treatment.
Due to his ongoing health issues, Pope Francis has been unable to deliver his customary Angelus prayer in person for three consecutive weeks. Instead, the Vatican has shared written messages from the Pope, which were sent from his hospital room in Rome. In his latest message, the Pope expressed gratitude for the outpouring of prayers and praised the medical team for their care.
The Pope will also miss the Ash Wednesday procession and Mass, marking the start of Lent, a significant event in the Christian calendar. On Monday evening, hundreds of Catholics gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pray for his health, many holding rosary beads as they made their way to the Basilica.
Pope Francis, who was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after experiencing difficulty breathing, was initially diagnosed with bronchitis and later pneumonia in both lungs. His condition is complicated by his past medical history, including pleurisy and a partial lung removal, which makes him more susceptible to severe lung infections like pneumonia.
Vatican officials have emphasized that the Pope’s condition remains critical, with his doctors maintaining a cautious outlook on his recovery.
