In brief
After two episodes of respiratory distress, Pope Francis is being closely monitored, experiencing a complex health situation that has left him relying on oxygen assistance.
Pope Francis exhibited two episodes of "acute respiratory failure" on Monday, as confirmed by the Vatican in a recent update. Doctors intervened to help clear mucus from his lungs, and despite the distress, the 88-year-old pontiff remained alert and receptive throughout the ordeal. Currently utilizing both an oxygen mask and a ventilator, he is described as "focused and cooperative" by the Holy See.This incident marks the third significant health setback for the Pope, who has been hospitalized since February 14 for pneumonia, after initially presenting with bronchitis. Just this past Friday, he experienced an isolated breathing crisis accompanied by vomiting, prompting further caution from medical officials. Fortunately, he had previously responded positively to high-flow oxygen therapy, reducing the necessity for invasive mechanical ventilation.Due to ongoing health issues, Pope Francis has not been able to deliver his usual Angelus prayer in person for three consecutive weeks, leading the Vatican to release a written message from him instead. In his note, penned from his hospital room, he expressed gratitude for the continuous prayers and the exceptional care provided by his medical team.In light of his inflamed lungs, Pope Francis finds himself particularly vulnerable to pneumonia, having had a history of pleurisy and partial lung removal from previous health struggles. He had been admitted to Gemelli hospital after suffering respiratory difficulties for several days, raising concerns regarding his overall wellbeing.As the medical team continues to assess his condition, Vatican officials emphasize that while he is stable, the Pope remains in a complex and delicate health state and is not entirely out of danger. While Catholics are gathering to pray for him near the hospital in hopes of witnessing a brief appearance, Pope Francis remains too weak to greet his supporters.
