Pope Francis has experienced a sudden worsening of his respiratory condition, according to a statement from the Vatican.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been battling pneumonia for two weeks, suffered an isolated breathing crisis on Friday after a bronchospasm episode. The crisis caused vomiting and a sudden deterioration in his breathing, leading to complications that required immediate medical attention.
Vatican officials confirmed that Pope Francis was promptly treated, with medical staff clearing his airways and placing him on non-invasive mechanical ventilation.
The Pope’s condition has stabilised following the intervention, and he is now receiving gas through a face mask to assist his breathing. Despite the health scare, sources say that the Pope remains alert and in good spirits, continuing to pray and spend time in the chapel during his recovery.
However, the Vatican has cautioned that doctors will need 24 to 48 hours to assess the impact of this crisis on his overall health and determine whether there have been any setbacks. Although the pontiff is not in immediate danger, the Vatican has refrained from offering a clear prognosis at this stage.
The respiratory crisis comes after a period of more optimistic updates from the Vatican, which had reported signs of improvement in the Pope’s condition in recent days. Earlier on Friday, Vatican sources noted that the Pope had made slight progress and had been responding well to ongoing treatments. The Pope had also received Communion earlier in the day.
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on 14 February after experiencing breathing difficulties. Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, he was later found to have pneumonia in both lungs, which exacerbated his pre-existing respiratory issues.
The Pope has had a history of lung problems, having suffered severe pneumonia in his youth, which resulted in the partial removal of one of his lungs. As a result, the pontiff is particularly vulnerable to pneumonia and other respiratory complications.
This latest hospitalisation marks the fourth time Pope Francis has required hospital care during his papacy, with this being his longest stay. His previous hospital visits included treatment for bronchitis in 2023 and other respiratory concerns.
Earlier this week, the Vatican announced that Pope Francis would not be presiding over the upcoming Ash Wednesday service, which marks the beginning of Lent.
This will be only the second time in his 12-year papacy that the pontiff has missed this important event, with a cardinal expected to lead the service in his place. Pope Francis has made no public appearances for several weeks, unable to deliver his traditional Angelus prayer due to his ongoing health issues.
Despite his health challenges, Pope Francis remains committed to his papal duties and continues to focus on global issues. During a prayer gathering on Friday evening, Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández of Argentina reflected on the Pope’s concerns for the suffering of people worldwide, particularly those affected by war, illness, and poverty.
Cardinal Fernández stated that the Pope’s heart is with those enduring hardship, and that he continues to offer his prayers for all in need.
As doctors continue to monitor his condition, Vatican sources remain cautious but hopeful. The pontiff’s medical team has indicated that further days of clinical stability are necessary to determine his prognosis. For now, Pope Francis’ health remains a subject of intense focus, with the Vatican offering regular updates on his condition.
The Pope’s health has been a matter of concern for many in the Catholic community and around the world, with faithful followers sending prayers and messages of support.
While the pontiff remains in hospital, the Vatican reassures the public that Pope Francis is receiving the best care and remains determined to recover and resume his papal duties as soon as he is able.
