Pope Francis is stable and has rested well all night after an episode of bronchospasm, according to the Vatican press office. Despite his clinical picture being complex and his prognosis reserved, the Argentine pontiff has not required mechanical ventilation in recent hours, only treatment with high-flow oxygen therapy.
The 88-year-old pope has been hospitalized since February 14 due to bronchitis with polymicrobial infection and bilateral pneumonia. Last Friday, he suffered a bronchospasm accompanied by vomiting, but it is reported that he is currently afebrile.
During his hospitalization, Francis has received visits from the Vatican Secretary of State, Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, and the Under-Secretary of State, Venezuelan Edgar Peña Parra. For the third consecutive Sunday, the pope has been unable to deliver the Angelus message, although he has expressed his gratitude for the affection and prayers he has received from the faithful.
The supreme pontiff managed to share a message in which he mentions feeling the blessing found in fragility and thanks God for allowing him to join, both physically and spiritually, with those who suffer from illnesses and hardships. Francis feels supported by the People of God and appreciates the care provided by the medical and healthcare personnel who attend to him in the hospital.
