Pope Francis struggles with severe pneumonia-related breathing issues Vatican confirms

Pope Francis has suffered two episodes of acute respiratory distress as he continues to receive treatment for double pneumonia in hospital, the Vatican has confirmed.

The 88-year-old pontiff, who was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli University Hospital more than two weeks ago, experienced a "significant accumulation" of mucus in his lungs, triggering severe breathing difficulties on March 3, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

According to a Vatican statement, he also suffered a bronchospasm, similar to an asthma attack, which led doctors to perform two bronchoscopies to clear his airways.

Medical staff administered non-invasive mechanical ventilation to assist his breathing, and while he remains under close observation, his prognosis is described as "guarded," meaning he is not yet out of danger.

Despite his condition, the Pope has remained alert and cooperative throughout his treatment. An earlier update from the Vatican stated that he had slept "well all night long" and was receiving ongoing therapies.

Pope Francis has faced several health challenges in recent years and is particularly vulnerable to lung infections, having had part of one lung removed as a young man due to pleurisy. Double pneumonia, an infection affecting both lungs, can cause inflammation and scarring, making breathing difficult.

On March 3, the pontiff issued a message dated February 26 from hospital, criticising the "progressive irrelevance" of international organisations in tackling conflict.

His absence from public life has been the longest of his 12-year papacy, with the Vatican yet to release any photos or videos of him since he was admitted on February 14 with a severe lung infection. However, he has continued to sign documents with the notation “From Gemelli Polyclinic”, indicating that he remains engaged with his duties.

It remains unclear how long his treatment will continue.

By Aghakazim Guliyev