Vatican City: Pope Francis, 88, suffered two episodes of acute respiratory failure on Monday evening, as reported by the Vatican. 'Today, the Holy Father suffered two episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency, caused by a significant accumulation of endobronchial mucus and consequent bronchospasm,' stated the Holy See Press Office.

According to Anadolu Agency, the press office revealed that two bronchoscopies were performed to clear large secretions, and non-invasive mechanical ventilation was resumed in the afternoon. Despite the medical interventions, the Pope remained "alert, oriented and cooperative at all times," though the prognosis for his health 'remains guarded.'

The pontiff has been hospitalized since February 14. On February 18, the Vatican announced that Francis had developed double pneumonia, complicating his condition. By February 21, doctors indicated that his life was not in immediate danger, but his condition became critical on February 22 after a 'prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis.'

Subsequent updates from the Vatican on February 24 and 25 indicated slight improvements in his health, though the situation was described as critical but stable. The Pope's condition reportedly improved on February 26 and 27.

A statement released on Friday detailed that the Pope underwent broncho-aspiration due to a bronchospasm crisis, necessitating non-invasive mechanical ventilation, which received a positive response. Since Saturday, Pope Francis has remained stable, though his prognosis continues to be cautious.

Pope Francis was previously admitted to Rome's Gemelli Hospital in 2021 for colon surgery. In recent years, he has used a wheelchair due to knee pain and was treated at the hospital twice in 2023 for a respiratory issue related to bronchitis and for abdominal surgery to repair a hernia.