Pope Francis Placed Back On Ventilator After Suffering Two Respiratory Failures

Pope Francis was placed back on a ventilator on Monday after experiencing two episodes of severe respiratory distress, the Vatican confirmed.

The 88-year-old Pontiff, who had been reportedly “resting well” over the weekend after a coughing episode on Friday night, saw a decline in his condition earlier Monday.

According to the Vatican, his breathing issues were triggered by a buildup of mucus in his lungs, leading to bronchial spasms.

Despite struggling to clear his airways, the Pope remained conscious, aware, and cooperative with medical staff.

A statement released in the evening detailed his condition: “Today, the Holy Father suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm.

‘Two bronchoscopies were therefore performed, with the need to remove large secretions.

[irp]

“In the afternoon, non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed. The Holy Father remained alert, oriented and cooperative at all times.  The prognosis remains guarded.”

This latest health complication comes as Pope Francis marks his 17th day at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been battling pneumonia in both lungs.

Despite his condition, the Pope still managed to share a message earlier in the day.

Following concerns about his silence, Vatican officials encouraged him to speak out. In a letter to the general assembly of the Pontifical Academy for Life, he addressed what he described as a “planetary crisis.”

Archbishop Vincenzo Paglia, one of his closest confidants, emphasized the Pope’s importance on the global stage, saying, “We need men like him who are truly universal and not only-one side.”

KanyiDaily had reported that Pope Francis is still in critical condition as tests reveal early signs of mild kidney failure, though the Vatican says the situation is under control.

[irp]