Pope Francis experienced two episodes of severe breathing difficulty on Monday, leading doctors to perform two emergency bronchoscopies. The Vatican stated that the 88-year-old pontiff continues to struggle with respiratory complications as he recovers from pneumonia.
“Today, the Holy Father experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm,” the Vatican said in a statement. This marked the 18th day of the pope’s hospitalization, the longest of his papacy.
The pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 with bronchitis, which later progressed to pneumonia in both lungs. Concern has grown worldwide over his health, as his condition remains uncertain. On Monday, the Vatican confirmed that doctors performed two bronchoscopies to remove excess mucus, helping to ease his breathing. In the afternoon, he resumed using non-invasive mechanical ventilation, meaning he was placed on an oxygen mask. The Vatican noted that he remained “alert, focused, and cooperative.”
Despite medical efforts, Pope Francis’s prognosis remains “reserved,” indicating that doctors are unable to predict his recovery timeline.
On Sunday evening, the Vatican had reported that the pope was in stable condition after a respiratory crisis on Friday. Over the weekend, he required an oxygen mask but was able to attend mass remotely, spending his time in prayer and rest.
During his hospitalization, the pope has continued to meet with high-ranking Vatican officials. On Sunday, he received Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, and Venezuelan Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra.
Francis, who has led the Catholic Church since March 2013, remains in a specially designated suite for popes on the 10th floor of the hospital. For the third consecutive Sunday, he was unable to deliver his traditional Angelus prayer in person. Instead, the Vatican issued a written message from him.
“In it, the pope thanked well-wishers for their prayers, saying: ‘I feel all your affection and closeness and, at this particular time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all.’”
