Pope Francis suffered a bronchial spasm that led to him breathing in vomit, requiring a non-invasive mechanical ventilator, the Vatican announced on Friday. While the 88-year-old pope responded well to the treatment and remained conscious and alert, the incident marked a setback in his recovery after two days of more encouraging health reports.
Earlier in the day, Francis had spent the morning receiving respiratory therapy while alternating between high-flow supplemental oxygen and a mask. He also prayed in the chapel, had breakfast, and read the day’s newspapers.
However, in the early afternoon, his condition suddenly worsened due to respiratory complications, prompting doctors to take immediate action and put him on a ventilator. While he has since stabilized, his medical team remains cautious about his prognosis.
The Vatican has already adjusted his upcoming schedule to accommodate his recovery. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis will preside over the Ash Wednesday ceremony and procession on March 5, taking over for the pope. A Holy Year audience scheduled for Saturday has been canceled, and it remains uncertain whether Francis will deliver his Sunday noon blessing for the third consecutive week.
Looking ahead, the pope has several major events on the horizon that he hopes to attend if his health allows. On April 27, he is set to canonize Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint of the digital era. In May, he has been invited by Patriarch Bartholomew I to Turkey for the 1,700th anniversary of the Council of Nicea, a significant moment in Christian history.
While Francis had previously expressed interest in attending, the Vatican has yet to confirm the trip as he continues his recovery.
