Pope Francis had a “peaceful night” in hospital after suffering an “isolated breathing crisis” in his battle with double pneumonia, the Vatican said on Saturday.
The episode on Friday evening led to vomiting and a “sudden worsening of [the Pope’s] respiratory condition” following an “isolated bronchospasm”.
His lungs had to be aspirated – cleared of vomit – and he received gas through a face mask to help him breathe.
The Vatican said that Pope Francis, 88, is resting”, adding that between 24 and 48 hours are needed to assess his clinical condition.
The pontiff was first admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on 14 February, after experiencing breathing difficulties.
It was later revealed that he was suffering from double pneumonia as well as kidney difficulties, and was said to be in a critical condition.
Statements from the Vatican before Friday night’s respiratory crisis had suggested his condition was improving, although doctors have emphasised that he is not out of danger.
Catholics have been asked to pray for the pontiff who has now been unable to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer in person for several weeks.
Last week he released a written message in which he thanked worshippers for their “prayers of comfort”.
Double pneumonia is a serious infection that can inflame and scar both lungs, making it difficult to breathe.
Francis developed pleurisy as a young man and had part of a lung removed as result, making him particularly prone to lung infections.
He has suffered a string of ailments in the past few years, including a lung inflammation which prevented him from attending COP28 in Dubai last November, abdominal surgery in June and treatment for bronchitis in March.
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