According to Vatican sources who informed Fox News, Pope Francis has been removed from mechanical ventilation and is showing signs of improvement on Tuesday after experiencing two breathing emergencies the previous day.
The 88-year-old’s overall outlook remains “guarded” and he is not out of danger yet, the sources added.
The pope was hospitalized at Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Feb. 14 after being initially diagnosed with a severe viral, bacterial, and fungal infection in his respiratory tract, which later progressed to pneumonia in both lungs.
On Monday, Pope Francis faced two acute respiratory emergencies, a challenging medical situation that was deemed less critical than the bronchospasm he experienced on Friday, as reported by the Vatican. As a result of these developments, the pope had to undergo “non-invasive mechanical ventilation” once again.
A woman holds a candle as Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, leads the recitation of the Holy Rosary for Pope Francis’ health in St Peter’s Square at the Vatican on Monday, March 3. (AP/Kirsty Wigglesworth)
“I would like to thank you for your prayers, which rise up to the Lord from the hearts of so many faithful from many parts of the world,” Pope Francis said in a message posted to his X account on Sunday.
A woman touches a portrait of Pope Francis following a Catholic Mass held to pray for the ailing Pontiff on Feb. 24, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. (John Moore/Getty Images)
“I feel all your affection and closeness and, at this particular time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people,” he added.
Fox News’ Melissa Chrise, Courtney Walsh and Landon Mion contributed to this report.
