The pontiff continues to battle respiratory complications—yesterday, he experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure, after which doctors resumed non-invasive lung ventilation.
The Vatican reports that 88-year-old Pope Francis had a peaceful night and is currently resting, though the risk of further complications remains.
The pontiff, who has been in Rome’s Agostino Gemelli University Hospital since February 14, remained conscious and cooperative with medical staff following the crises, which were caused by a significant buildup of mucus in his bronchi. Doctors performed a bronchoscopy to remove the excess secretions and continue to administer oxygen therapy.
Experts emphasize that this is not a new infection but a consequence of bilateral pneumonia, in which the bronchi accumulate mucus as a protective response. However, the pontiff is experiencing insufficient muscle strength to cough up the fluid effectively, which complicates his recovery.
Since his hospitalization, the Vatican has not released any photos or videos of Pope Francis. This hospitalization has become the longest of his 12-year papacy.
