Pope Francis suffered a sudden episode of respiratory difficulty on Friday, prompting medical staff to place him on a breathing machine, according to the latest update from the Vatican.
The episode was further complicated by vomiting, some of which he aspirated, leading to additional treatment before he was placed on mechanical ventilation. A Vatican source confirmed to CNN that while the pontiff is not intubated, he is using a breathing mask.
Despite the health scare, the Vatican assured that Pope Francis “remained alert and oriented at all times.” However, a spokesperson noted that he is not yet considered out of danger, with doctors expected to have a clearer assessment of his condition in the next 24 to 48 hours.
This latest incident adds to the pope’s ongoing battles with lung-related illnesses. Francis, 87, was first admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital two weeks ago, struggling with bronchitis that later developed into pneumonia. His current hospitalization marks his fourth—and longest—stay since assuming the papacy in 2013.
Francis has endured lung complications for much of his life, having suffered severe pneumonia in his youth, which led to the partial removal of one lung. The Vatican has been providing twice-daily updates on his condition, and as of Thursday, officials said his health was “improving,” though his prognosis remained uncertain.
As part of his recovery, Pope Francis’ schedule has been cleared to accommodate his intensive medical care. On Friday, the Vatican announced that he would not be leading next week’s Ash Wednesday service, which marks the beginning of Lent. This is only the second time in his 12-year papacy that he has missed the solemn occasion. A cardinal will preside over the service in his absence.
Amid concerns over his condition, prayers have poured in from across the globe. Argentinian Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández, while praying for the pope on Friday night, reminded the faithful that Francis’ thoughts extend beyond his personal health struggles. “Certainly, it is close to the Holy Father’s heart that our prayers be not only for him, but also for all those who, in this particular dramatic and suffering moment of the world, bear the heavy burden of war, sickness, and poverty.”
As the Vatican and the Catholic world await further updates, concerns remain high over the pope’s fragile health and his ability to continue leading the Church amid these recurring medical challenges.
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