Pope Francis Recovering After Respiratory Failure, Vatican Reports

Pope Francis is well-rested and in stable condition following episodes of respiratory failure earlier this week, the Vatican announced on Wednesday. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalised since February for pneumonia treatment, spent the night on non-invasive mechanical ventilation but has since transitioned back to a high-flow oxygen mask.

According to the Vatican, Pope Francis is free of fever, alert, cooperative with treatment, and well-orientated. However, his traditional Wednesday audience with the faithful has been cancelled for the third consecutive week. Instead, a pre-prepared text has been published, though it does not include any recent updates.

The Pope will also be absent from Ash Wednesday observances, marking the start of Lent. Instead of leading the customary mass at Rome’s Santa Sabina Basilica, a cardinal will officiate the service.

Pope Francis was initially admitted on February 14 after experiencing persistent breathing difficulties. He was first treated for bronchitis before being diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. Given his history of lung complications—having undergone a partial lung removal due to pleurisy as a young man—his condition remains a concern for doctors.