Pope Francis remains alert following two episodes of acute respiratory failure on Monday, the Vatican confirmed.

Doctors intervened to clear mucus from his lungs, ensuring he remained conscious throughout the treatment. The 88-year-old pontiff has resumed using an oxygen mask and ventilator to support his breathing, but remains “alert, focused, and cooperative,” according to Vatican officials.

This marks the third major health setback since his hospitalization 18 days ago due to pneumonia. On Friday, he experienced an isolated breathing crisis that involved vomiting, but responded well to oxygen therapy. By Sunday, Vatican officials reported that he no longer required non-invasive ventilation, relying instead on high-flow oxygen therapy. However, following Monday’s incidents, mechanical ventilation was reinstated.

Pope Francis has been unable to deliver his weekly Angelus prayer in person for the past three weeks. Instead, the Vatican has published his written messages, including one on Sunday where he expressed gratitude for the prayers and medical care he has received. His condition will also prevent him from attending Wednesday’s Ash Wednesday procession and Mass, marking the start of Lent.

Meanwhile, hundreds of Catholics continue to gather at St. Peter’s Square, holding vigils and praying for his recovery. Pilgrims, priests, and nuns, including those visiting Rome for the Jubilee Year, have been led by an American cardinal in nightly prayers.

Pope Francis, hospitalized since February 14, was initially diagnosed with bronchitis before tests confirmed pneumonia in both lungs. His past medical history includes pleurisy as a young man, leading to the partial removal of one lung, making him particularly vulnerable to respiratory infections.

While the Vatican insists his condition is stable, officials caution that his health remains fragile, and he is not yet out of danger.

Source: BBC 

BDST: 0948 HRS, MAR 04, 2025
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