VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis experienced a sudden breathing crisis while hospitalized on Friday, marking a setback in his recovery from double pneumonia, the Vatican confirmed.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been in Rome’s Gemelli hospital since February 14 due to a severe respiratory infection, suffered an “isolated bronchospasm crisis,” a condition similar to an asthma attack. He also experienced vomiting with inhalation, leading to a brief but serious deterioration in his breathing. Doctors provided aspiration to clear his airways, followed by non-invasive mechanical ventilation.
Despite the episode, the Vatican stated that Pope Francis remains “alert and well-oriented” and continues to receive treatment. Medical teams will monitor him over the next 24-48 hours to assess the impact of the crisis on his overall condition.
This development comes after several days of reported improvement in the pope’s health. He had not suffered a similar respiratory episode since February 22.
Due to his illness, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis will not lead the Ash Wednesday service on March 5, which marks the start of Lent. A senior Vatican official will take his place.
Francis has a history of lung-related health issues, having undergone surgery as a young adult to remove part of one lung due to pleurisy. His current battle with double pneumonia, a severe lung infection, remains a concern for Vatican officials and the Catholic faithful worldwide.