Pope Francis is still in critical condition following a severe asthmatic respiratory crisis earlier today. He required high-flow oxygen therapy, according to a Vatican update released on Saturday.
“The Holy Father’s condition is still serious. As we stated yesterday, he is not yet out of danger,” the Vatican’s statement confirmed.
Doctors remain cautious about his recovery, describing his prognosis as “reserved.” Medical teams continue working to stabilize his condition.
On Saturday morning, Francis needed both oxygen therapy and a blood transfusion, the statement revealed. Despite his pain, he remained alert and sat in an armchair throughout the day, though he was in more discomfort than the previous day.
The 88-year-old Pope was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on February 14 due to bronchitis. Earlier this week, the Vatican announced that he had developed pneumonia in both lungs. His condition, described as a polymicrobial infection, developed due to bronchiectasis and asthmatic bronchitis. Treatment has been complicated by the need for corticosteroids and antibiotics.
His pneumonia, coupled with the necessity for a blood transfusion, has raised concerns about sepsis. This dangerous condition occurs when the body’s immune system starts attacking healthy organs, potentially leading to organ failure and shock.
Health Decline After Initial Improvement
Saturday’s critical update came as a surprise. Just days earlier, on Wednesday, the Vatican had reported that Francis’ condition was stable and showing slight improvement. They even mentioned that he had resumed some of his duties, including a meeting with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
Meloni later issued a statement describing the Pope as “alert and responsive.”
“We joked as usual,” she said. “He hasn’t lost his well-known sense of humor.”
Ongoing Health Struggles
Francis has faced multiple health challenges over the years. He has battled respiratory infections, flu, and other illnesses. Additionally, he has undergone several surgeries, including an operation in 2021 for diverticulitis and another in 2023 for a hernia.
Just last week, he was seen wearing a sling on his arm after suffering a fall at his residence. This marked his second fall in a few weeks.
Despite these health issues, Francis has remained steadfast in his role. In an autobiography released in January, he dismissed speculation about stepping down.
“I am well,” he wrote. “The Church is led by the head and heart, not the legs.”
Jubilee Celebrations Without the Pope
His hospitalization coincides with the Vatican’s jubilee celebrations, a Catholic tradition held every 50 years to mark the remission of sins. The event, also known as the Holy Year, continued as planned on Saturday—though without Francis’ presence.
Since 2013, Pope Francis has led over a billion Catholics worldwide.
