Vatican, Italy – The 88-year-old Pope Francis (Jorge Mario Bergoglio) is reported to have suffered from an “isolated” breathing crisis.
Vatican sources said the Pope is being treated in hospital for double pneumonia.
As reported by Sky News, the crisis caused Pope to vomit and forced him to use an oxygen mask on his nose and mouth for the first time.
The Holy Father suffered a bronchial spasm, which caused him to breathe in vomit, causing “a sudden worsening of his respiratory condition”.
According to BBC, Vatican sources said the latest crisis happened at around 2pm local time on Friday, February 28, 2025.
The sources disclosed that Pope Francis’ doctors need 24-48 hours to determine whether there has been any damage or setback to the pontiff’s condition.
They added that for now, the doctors are not giving any prognosis.
In the early afternoon of today, after a morning spent alternating respiratory physiotherapy with prayer in the chapel, the Holy Father presented an isolated crisis of bronchospasm which, however, led to an episode of vomiting with inhalation and sudden worsening of the respiratory condition.
“The Holy Father was promptly broncho-aspirated and began non-invasive mechanical ventilation, with a good response to gas exchange.”
Naturenex earlier reported that the Vatican reports that the pontiff is showing signs of recovery from bilateral pneumonia but still requires clinical stability.
Despite health challenges, Pope Francis continues respiratory physiotherapy, rest, and daily prayers, including receiving the Eucharist.
Doctors note improvements in his kidney function and lung infection, with experts highlighting the benefits of his oxygen therapy and faith in recovery.
