The 88-year-old pontiff, receiving high-flow oxygen therapy, will miss Ash Wednesday events as he remains under medical care.
Pope Francis Maintains Stability After Respiratory Episodes, Vatican Reports
Pope Francis Maintains Stability After Respiratory Episodes, Vatican Reports
Vatican officials confirm the Pope has stabilized following two respiratory failures, continuing monitored treatment for pneumonia.
Pope Francis has shown stability following two episodes of respiratory failure on Monday, according to a recent update from the Vatican. The Holy See stated that the 88-year-old pontiff did not encounter any further incidents of respiratory failure or bronchospasm throughout the evening. “He remained afebrile, always alert, cooperative with therapies, and well-oriented,” the statement read.
Currently hospitalized since mid-February for pneumonia treatment, the Pope began using an oxygen mask and ventilator after Monday's episodes. This was the second time he required mechanical assistance, having previously used a ventilator after a distressing breathing crisis last Friday.
In Tuesday's daily briefing, Vatican officials noted that Pope Francis had returned to high-flow oxygen therapy. During the day, he alternated between rest and prayer, and even received the Eucharist on the morning of the update.
Due to his health condition, Pope Francis is expected to miss the traditional Ash Wednesday procession and mass that marks the onset of Lent, a significant period in the Christian calendar. He has also been unable to present his customary Angelus prayer in person for the past three Sundays.
The Pope was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after struggling with breathing difficulties for several days. Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, a subsequent examination revealed pneumonia in both lungs. Having had a history of pleurisy and a partial lung removal in his youth, the Pontiff is at increased risk for developing pneumonia, which can arise from various infections.
Sources from the Vatican have consistently emphasized that the Pope's condition remains complex, with medical professionals exercising caution as he continues to be monitored closely.
Currently hospitalized since mid-February for pneumonia treatment, the Pope began using an oxygen mask and ventilator after Monday's episodes. This was the second time he required mechanical assistance, having previously used a ventilator after a distressing breathing crisis last Friday.
In Tuesday's daily briefing, Vatican officials noted that Pope Francis had returned to high-flow oxygen therapy. During the day, he alternated between rest and prayer, and even received the Eucharist on the morning of the update.
Due to his health condition, Pope Francis is expected to miss the traditional Ash Wednesday procession and mass that marks the onset of Lent, a significant period in the Christian calendar. He has also been unable to present his customary Angelus prayer in person for the past three Sundays.
The Pope was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after struggling with breathing difficulties for several days. Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, a subsequent examination revealed pneumonia in both lungs. Having had a history of pleurisy and a partial lung removal in his youth, the Pontiff is at increased risk for developing pneumonia, which can arise from various infections.
Sources from the Vatican have consistently emphasized that the Pope's condition remains complex, with medical professionals exercising caution as he continues to be monitored closely.
