VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis, hospitalized since February 14 with double pneumonia, rested well overnight after a challenging day, the Vatican reported on March 04, 2025. The 88-year-old pontiff experienced a setback on Monday, suffering two episodes of “acute respiratory insufficiency” that necessitated a return to non-invasive mechanical ventilation to aid his breathing.
In a brief update, the Vatican stated, “The pope slept all night and is continuing to rest.” A comprehensive medical bulletin on his condition is expected later Tuesday evening. The episodes, attributed to “a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus,” triggered a bronchospasm—similar to an asthma attack—prompting doctors to perform two bronchoscopies to examine his airways.
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Monday’s developments followed days of cautiously optimistic updates, marking a shift to a more guarded prognosis. The Vatican underscored that Francis remains at risk, though a Vatican official, speaking anonymously, noted that his blood tests held steady and framed the respiratory issues as a typical response to fighting infection.
Currently at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, Pope Francis has not appeared publicly since his admission—his longest absence since becoming pope in March 2013. His medical team has not projected a timeline for his recovery. The pontiff’s history of lung issues, including pleurisy and partial lung removal in his youth, heightens his vulnerability to such infections.
Double pneumonia, affecting both lungs, can cause inflammation and scarring, severely complicating breathing—a battle Francis continues to face as the world awaits further news on his health.
Key Points: Pope Francis Back on Ventilation After Respiratory Setback
- Hospital Update: Pope Francis, 88, rested well overnight after being hospitalized since February 14, 2025, with double pneumonia, Vatican reported on March 04, 2025.
- Respiratory Setback: On Monday, he suffered two episodes of “acute respiratory insufficiency” due to mucus buildup, requiring non-invasive ventilation and two bronchoscopies.
- Guarded Prognosis: Despite stable blood tests, his condition remains serious, with no clear recovery timeline provided by doctors.
- Health History: Francis, absent from public view since admission, has a history of lung issues, including pleurisy and partial lung removal, increasing his infection risk.
