Pope Francis has experienced two acute respiratory attacks, necessitating two separate bronchoscopies, as he continues to battle pneumonia. The Vatican confirmed that these episodes occurred on March 3, 2025, marking the 18th day of the Pope’s hospitalization, the longest of his papacy.
According to the Vatican’s statement, the pontiff faced episodes of acute respiratory failure due to significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and bronchospasm. He was initially admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14, suffering from bronchitis that later developed into pneumonia in both lungs, raising global concerns for his health.
The Vatican’s medical bulletin indicated that the bronchoscopies were performed to aspirate the abundant secretions in the Pope’s lungs. Following the procedures, he resumed non-invasive mechanical ventilation, using an oxygen mask. The Pope is described as “alert, focused, and cooperative.”
Despite the challenging situation, the Vatican maintains that the Pope’s prognosis remains “reserved,” meaning that doctors cannot predict the likely outcome of his condition.
On the previous Sunday, the Pope’s health had stabilized after a breathing crisis, but he required the oxygen mask for several days. During his time in the hospital, he has participated in mass and met with several Vatican officials, although he has missed his traditional Angelus prayer for three consecutive Sundays.
In a message of gratitude for the support he has received, Francis expressed, “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.”
As the leader of nearly 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, Pope Francis is currently being treated in a special suite reserved for pontiffs on the 10th floor of the Gemelli hospital.
