, Remains Under Medical Care
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Pope Francis, 88, passed a calm day in the hospital on Tuesday, showing no signs of the acute respiratory crises he experienced the previous day. The Vatican reported that the pontiff’s condition remained stable, with no further episodes of respiratory failure or bronchospasm. However, the Pope continues to wear an oxygen mask overnight, as his double pneumonia treatment progresses.
Since being admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 for double pneumonia in both lungs, Pope Francis has faced multiple respiratory crises. On Monday, he suffered two episodes of acute respiratory failure, which were caused by a significant accumulation of mucus in his airways, resulting in bronchospasm. These crises were the third such instances since February 22.
Despite these challenges, the Vatican reported that Pope Francis remained alert, without a fever, and continued to cooperate with his treatment. However, his prognosis remains uncertain, with the Vatican maintaining that it “remains reserved,” meaning the medical outcome cannot yet be predicted.
In the morning, Pope Francis transitioned from an oxygen mask to high-flow oxygen through a cannula. He is scheduled to resume non-invasive mechanical ventilation overnight. Throughout the day, the Pope rested and prayed, focusing on recuperation. He has been receiving support from Vatican officials and has been able to communicate with people via phone during his hospitalization.
Health experts have expressed concern over the Pope’s prolonged stay in the hospital and the recurrence of respiratory issues, given his age and medical history. Medical professionals, including pulmonologists Bruno Crestani and Herve Pegliasco, have warned that such prolonged hospitalizations and repeated respiratory crises in an 88-year-old are serious concerns, especially in the context of double pneumonia.
Although Pope Francis has not made any public appearances for nearly three weeks, the Vatican has released written prayers and messages from him, including his thanks for global well-wishes and prayers. His absence from the traditional Sunday Angelus prayers has been noted, with the Vatican providing written texts in his place.
Pope Francis, who has faced significant health issues in recent years, including surgeries and mobility challenges, had previously left open the possibility of resigning should his health decline. However, he has consistently dismissed this notion before his current hospitalization.
As of now, no visitors have been scheduled to see the Pope, and his recovery remains under close observation.
