Pope Francis was placed on a breathing machine after experiencing respiratory difficulty on March 1, 2025, according to a medical update from the Vatican. The 88-year-old pontiff’s condition was complicated by vomiting, which he aspirated, leading to mechanical ventilation. Although he remains alert, he is not considered out of danger.
- Pope Francis experienced respiratory difficulties.
- He is on mechanical ventilation, not intubated.
- Vatican reports he remains alert and oriented.
- Current hospitalization is his longest since 2013.
- Pope's schedule cleared for medical treatment.
- Ash Wednesday service will be led by a cardinal.
Pope Francis has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for two weeks due to ongoing lung-related issues, including bronchitis and pneumonia. This latest episode marks his fourth hospitalization since becoming pope in 2013, and it is his longest stay to date. The Vatican has been providing regular updates on his health, indicating that his condition was improving earlier in the week, but his prognosis remains uncertain.
During his life, Pope Francis has faced significant lung problems. He had severe pneumonia as a young man, which led to the removal of part of one lung. Currently, he is receiving intensive medical treatment, and his schedule has been cleared to accommodate this care. Notably, he will not lead the upcoming Ash Wednesday service, marking only the second time in his papacy that he will miss this event.
In a show of solidarity, Argentinian Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández expressed that prayers should extend beyond the pope to all those suffering from war, sickness, and poverty. The Vatican’s updates indicate that while the pontiff is resting peacefully, he remains in a precarious state, and further information about his health is expected soon.
In summary, Pope Francis is currently on a breathing machine following a respiratory episode complicated by aspiration. His health updates will continue to be monitored closely, and the Vatican is expected to provide more information in the coming days.