Pope Francis is in a fragile state of health after experiencing two instances of “acute respiratory failure” on Monday afternoon, as confirmed by the Vatican. Medical staff intervened to help clear mucus from the Pope’s lungs, but the Holy See indicated that the 88-year-old pontiff remained alert during the process.
The Pope has begun using an oxygen mask and ventilator again to assist with his breathing, yet he continues to be “alert, focused, and cooperative,” according to the Vatican. This event marks the third major health scare since he was hospitalized 18 days prior due to pneumonia.
Previously, on Friday, Pope Francis experienced an isolated breathing crisis characterized by vomiting, but he responded positively to oxygen therapy. By Sunday, it was stated that he no longer needed “non-invasive mechanical ventilation” and was only utilizing high-flow oxygen therapy. However, following the events of Monday, mechanical ventilation has been reintroduced as part of his treatment plan.
Due to his ongoing health challenges, Pope Francis has been unable to deliver his traditional Angelus prayer in person for three weeks in a row. Instead, the Vatican has distributed written messages from the Pope, which were sent from his hospital room in Rome. In his most recent message, the Pope expressed appreciation for the multitude of prayers and commended the medical team for their care.
The Pope will also miss the Ash Wednesday procession and Mass, which signifies the beginning of Lent, an important occasion in the Christian calendar. On Monday evening, countless Catholics gathered in St. Peter’s Square to pray for his recovery, many clutching rosary beads as they proceeded to the Basilica.
Pope Francis, who was taken to the hospital on February 14 after having trouble breathing, was initially diagnosed with bronchitis and later diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. His condition is complicated by prior medical issues, including pleurisy and the partial removal of a lung, making him more vulnerable to serious lung infections such as pneumonia.
Vatican officials have stressed that the Pope’s condition is still critical, with his doctors taking a cautious stance on his recovery.
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