Pope Francis suffers '2 episodes of acute respiratory failure'
What's the story
Pope Francis suffered two serious breathing attacks, requiring two bronchoscopies and a return to noninvasive mechanical ventilation, the Vatican said on Tuesday. The attacks were caused by a large amount of endobronchial mucus and subsequent bronchospasm. This is his 18th day at Rome's Gemelli hospital, the longest of his papacy. The Argentine pope was first admitted on February 14 with bronchitis, which developed into pneumonia in both lungs.
Health update
Pope Francis undergoes medical procedures, remains alert
On Monday evening, it was confirmed that Pope Francis underwent two bronchoscopic procedures to remove substantial secretions. Despite his health challenges, he resumed using non-invasive mechanical ventilation through an oxygen mask and remained alert and cooperative. The Vatican continues to maintain a "reserved" prognosis for the pope's condition, indicating uncertainty about its outcome.
Condition stable
Pope Francis's condition stabilizes, participates in mass
Despite a respiratory crisis on Friday, the Vatican said Pope Francis's condition was stable by Sunday evening. He needed oxygen support on Friday and Saturday but not on Sunday. Meanwhile, he attended mass and spent his time resting and praying. Since his hospitalization, Pope Francis has been undergoing treatment in a special papal suite on Gemelli's 10th floor.
Public absence
Vatican maintains silence on Pope's public appearance
Notably, the Vatican has not shared any photos or videos of Pope Francis since his hospitalization on February 14. This is the longest he has been absent from public view in his 12-year papacy. The pope, who took office in March 2013, is the spiritual head of nearly 1.4 billion followers across the globe. His extended hospital stay and health concerns have sparked worldwide worry among the Catholic community and beyond.