Pope Francis’ condition remains stable, as he alternates between mechanical ventilation and high-flow oxygen therapy, according to a statement from the Vatican on Saturday. The 88-year-old pontiff does not appear to have a fever and has not experienced additional bronchospasms. Vatican sources indicate that the pope’s situation is “complex,” yet “stable” as he continues his third week in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. His white blood cell count is reportedly “so low” that infections are likely under control.
On October 20, 2024, Pope Francis waved to the crowd from his popemobile during the weekly Angelus prayers in St. Peter’s Square, as documented by Filippo Monteforte/AFP/Getty.
Pope Francis’ Medical Condition: What to Know About Bilateral Pneumonia
The pope seems to be in good spirits and is capable of moving, eating, and walking. However, according to Vatican sources, his doctors have advised him to remain cautious. On Saturday, he chose to rest rather than engage in work with his secretaries.
Initially hospitalized on February 14 for what was believed to be bronchitis, Pope Francis was later diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia, affecting both of his lungs. Given his history of respiratory issues, which includes the removal of part of a lung when he was 21 years old, his health is closely monitored.
A candle, featuring a portrait of Pope Francis, has been placed at the base of a statue of Pope John Paul II outside the Gemelli hospital, where he is hospitalized for bronchitis tests and treatment, as seen on February 17, 2025. (TIZIANA FABI/AFP via Getty Images)
VP Vance Shares Special Message to Ailing Pope Francis Amid Breathing Crisis
Catholics worldwide have been praying for the pope’s health, with many gathering near the hospital where he is receiving treatment. On Friday, during the annual National Prayer Breakfast, Vice President JD Vance spoke about the pope’s health struggles, expressing that he has been praying daily since learning of Pope Francis’s hospitalization.
Despite past disagreements between the pope and the Trump administration, Vance highlighted the importance of prayer for the pope and led the audience in a supportive prayer.
“I believe that the pope is fundamentally a person who cares about the flock of Christians under his leadership, and he’s a man who cares about the spiritual direction of the faith,” Vance stated. “Every day me and my children have said a prayer for the Holy Father, and we pray for his health, and we pray for his comfort as he deals with what appears to be a pretty serious health crisis.”
He concluded, “If the Holy Father can hear us, I hope he knows that there are thousands of faithful Catholics in this room and millions of faithful Catholics in this country who are praying for him as he weathers his particular storm.”
