Pope Francis suffers breathing crisis amid pneumonia battle

Pope Francis, currently hospitalised with pneumonia, suffered a breathing crisis on Friday, causing him to vomit,. However, he was quickly administered oxygen and responded well to treatment, according to AFP report.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for the past two weeks, experienced a bronchospasm episode that led to a sudden respiratory decline.

"The Holy Father promptly underwent broncho-aspiration and began non-invasive mechanical ventilation, with a good response on gas exchange," the Vatican said in a statement.

Despite the setback, Francis remained alert and cooperative throughout the ordeal, and doctors are closely monitoring his condition over the next 24 to 48 hours to assess any further deterioration, a Vatican source said.

Pope’s condition remains serious but stable

Earlier on Friday, Vatican insiders had suggested that Francis' condition was no longer critical, following gradual improvements. However, his medical team remains cautious, keeping his health status “reserved”, meaning no predictions can be made about his recovery.

The pontiff, who had part of his lung removed as a young man, is prone to respiratory infections and has battled chronic bronchitis in recent years. His age and pre-existing respiratory condition mean that full recovery could take time, doctors warn.

Despite his health struggles, Francis continues to work from his hospital suite, engaging in breathing exercises, resting, and praying.

Resignation speculation grows

This fourth hospitalisation in his 12-year papacy—the longest so far—has reignited speculation about whether Francis might step down. With his packed schedule leading up to the Jubilee year celebrations, Vatican expert Marco Politi suggested that if the pope recovers, he may complete the Jubilee year but could then reconsider his position.

Francis has previously stated that he is open to resigning, following in the footsteps of Pope Benedict XVI, who stepped down in 2013 due to health concerns. However, before his hospitalization, he repeatedly affirmed that he was not yet ready to retire—and may never be.

For now, the focus remains on the pope’s recovery, as the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics await further updates on his health.

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