Pope Francis, who has been battling pneumonia for two weeks, is in stable condition following an “isolated” breathing crisis on Friday, according to the Vatican.
The 88-year-old experienced vomiting and a sudden deterioration in his respiratory condition. However, a Vatican statement on Saturday evening confirmed that he had not suffered further breathing crises and was responding well to oxygen therapy.
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Although no prognosis was shared, the Vatican stated that the Pope remained “alert and well-oriented.” He received the Eucharist in the afternoon and then spent time in prayer.
The Pope has been alternating between an oxygen mask and extended periods of high-flow oxygen, but his blood circulation remains stable, and there are no signs of infection or inflammation. He continues to eat and actively participate in respiratory physiotherapy.
Earlier, Vatican officials reported that Pope Francis had a “peaceful night” and was resting, with one source noting that he had coffee in the morning. Doctors have indicated that 24 to 48 hours are needed to assess any potential setbacks.
A previous Vatican statement on Friday evening described the Pope’s condition as an “isolated crisis of bronchospasm,” which led to vomiting, inhalation issues, and a sudden worsening of his breathing. This update followed earlier reports of a “slight improvement” in his health.
The Pope remains at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital due to the “complex” nature of his condition. This hospitalization marks the longest period he has been absent from the public eye since assuming the papacy in 2013, causing concern among Roman Catholics.
Initially, Italian media had reported that the Pope was “no longer critical,” as Vatican statements had become more optimistic. However, his health has now returned to the front pages of newspapers, with headlines expressing renewed anxiety over his condition.
Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after experiencing several days of breathing difficulties. He was initially treated for bronchitis before being diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs.
His vulnerability to pneumonia stems from a previous lung condition—pleurisy—which led to the partial removal of one of his lungs as a young man.
During his 12-year tenure, the Pope has been hospitalized multiple times, including for bronchitis in March 2023.
A native of Argentina, Pope Francis is the first Latin American and the first Jesuit to lead the Roman Catholic Church.
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