Pope Francis Faces Health Challenges Following Respiratory Crisis

The 88-year-old pontiff remains hospitalized for double pneumonia as Vatican updates note his condition is stable but serious.

Pope Francis, hospitalized since February 14 for double pneumonia, experienced a respiratory crisis on Friday involving bronchospasms and vomiting.
The Vatican reports that the pope has been stable since the crisis, describing his condition as 'complex' with a reserved prognosis.
Doctors indicate they need 24 to 48 hours to assess the full impact of the recent respiratory episode on his overall health.
The pontiff has shown signs of alertness, continuing to pray and read, but will miss the March 5 Ash Wednesday celebrations, a key event in the Catholic calendar.
This is the pope's fourth and longest hospitalization since 2021, raising questions about his ability to continue his duties and prompting speculation about a potential resignation.