By 草莓影视 Staff
ROME 鈥� Pope Francis experienced sudden respiratory distress, requiring the use of a breathing machine, according to an update from the Vatican. The episode was further complicated by vomiting, some of which he aspirated, .
Medical staff treated the aspiration before placing the 87-year-old pontiff on mechanical ventilation on Feb. 28. A Vatican source told CNN that he has not been intubated but is using a mask for respiratory support.
Despite the episode, the Vatican emphasized that Francis 鈥渞emained alert and oriented at all times.鈥�
A spokesperson later cautioned that the pope is not yet out of danger. The Vatican source told CNN that doctors anticipate having a clearer understanding of his condition within the next 24 to 48 hours.
Francis was initially admitted to Rome鈥檚 Gemelli Hospital two weeks ago amid ongoing lung-related issues, including bronchitis and pneumonia. His current hospitalization marks his fourth 鈥� and longest 鈥� stay since assuming the papacy in 2013.
The pope has a history of respiratory challenges. In his youth, he suffered from severe pneumonia, which led to the partial removal of one of his lungs.
Vatican officials have been providing twice-daily updates on his condition. On Thursday, they reported signs of improvement but noted that his prognosis remains uncertain.
His schedule has been cleared to accommodate intensive medical care. Earlier Friday, the Vatican announced that he will not preside over next week鈥檚 Ash Wednesday service, marking the beginning of Lent. It is only the second time in his 12-year tenure that he will miss the event. A cardinal is expected to lead the service in his place.
During a prayer gathering Friday night, Argentinian Cardinal Victor Manuel Fern谩ndez reflected on the pope鈥檚 health, stating, 鈥淐ertainly it is close to the Holy Father鈥檚 heart that our prayers be not only for him, but also for all those who, in this particular dramatic and suffering moment of the world, bear the heavy burden of war, sickness, and poverty.鈥�