Pope Francis suffered a sudden breathing crisis on Friday while battling pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, the Vatican confirmed.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized for two weeks, experienced a bronchospasm that triggered vomiting and a sharp decline in his breathing, prompting urgent medical intervention.
“The Holy Father underwent immediate bronchoaspiration and was placed on non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which helped stabilize his breathing,” the Vatican’s statement read.
Despite the scare, Pope Francis remained alert and cooperative throughout the medical procedure, showing a positive response to treatment.
Condition Improving, But Caution Remains
While Vatican sources indicated that his condition is not currently critical, officials have not lifted the “reserved prognosis” status, meaning doctors remain cautious about predicting his full recovery.
Francis has chronic respiratory issues, making his road to recovery uncertain, and medical experts warn that his age could slow the healing process.
This marks the longest hospital stay for Pope Francis since he assumed the papacy in 2013. Despite recent signs of improvement, the latest setback has renewed concerns over his health and raised questions about his ability to continue leading the Catholic Church.
