In a concerning update from the Vatican, Pope Francis is seemingly alert following two instances of acute respiratory failure, according to the Holy See. The 88-year-old pontiff required medical intervention to clear mucus from his lungs but remained conscious throughout the ordeal. After initially responding to oxygen therapy earlier this week, the Pope has had to revert to using an oxygen mask and ventilator for his breathing assistance. This marks the third serious health incident since his hospitalization due to pneumonia nearly three weeks ago.
Pope Francis Remains Alert After Acute Respiratory Episodes
Pope Francis Remains Alert After Acute Respiratory Episodes
The Vatican reports Pope Francis is conscious and stable despite recent health setbacks.
Officials noted that the Pope experienced a "breathing crisis" on Friday, which included vomiting. However, he responded positively to treatment, with early reports stating he no longer needed mechanical ventilation but rather high-flow oxygen therapy. Sadly, following the latest events, Pope Francis is back to requiring such support.
As a result of his ongoing illness, the Pope has been unable to deliver his traditional Angelus prayer in person for several weeks, with his written remarks being shared instead from his hospital room in Rome. He expressed gratitude for the prayers of the faithful and appreciation for his medical caregivers. Despite hopes from visiting Catholics who gathered outside Gemelli hospital, Pope Francis remains too unwell to greet them, though he has been described as stable by Vatican officials.
The pontiff's initial hospitalization on February 14 was prompted by breathing difficulties; he was diagnosed with bronchitis and subsequently pneumonia in both lungs. His medical history, including a previous pleurisy infection and lung surgery in his youth, complicates his condition. Vatican sources express caution regarding his health, noting that he is not out of danger yet, maintaining that his case is complex and necessitates continuous monitoring.
Vatican City
As a result of his ongoing illness, the Pope has been unable to deliver his traditional Angelus prayer in person for several weeks, with his written remarks being shared instead from his hospital room in Rome. He expressed gratitude for the prayers of the faithful and appreciation for his medical caregivers. Despite hopes from visiting Catholics who gathered outside Gemelli hospital, Pope Francis remains too unwell to greet them, though he has been described as stable by Vatican officials.
The pontiff's initial hospitalization on February 14 was prompted by breathing difficulties; he was diagnosed with bronchitis and subsequently pneumonia in both lungs. His medical history, including a previous pleurisy infection and lung surgery in his youth, complicates his condition. Vatican sources express caution regarding his health, noting that he is not out of danger yet, maintaining that his case is complex and necessitates continuous monitoring.
Vatican City
