Pope Francis is in a critical condition after suffering a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis that required high-flow oxygen, the Vatican announced on Saturday.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalised for a week with pneumonia and a complex lung infection, also underwent blood transfusions due to low platelet counts linked to anaemia.
“The Holy Father’s condition continues to be critical, therefore, as explained yesterday (Friday), the Pope is not out of danger,” the Vatican statement said, as per AP.
Doctors monitor for blood infection
It was the first time the term “critical” was used in an official statement regarding his health. The update also noted that Francis “continues to be alert and spent the day in an armchair although in more pain than yesterday. At the moment the prognosis is reserved.”
Doctors have warned that the primary concern remains the possibility of sepsis, a serious blood infection that can result from pneumonia. While no signs of sepsis were detected as of Friday, the Vatican’s medical team called for close monitoring.
Francis, who has a history of chronic lung issues, was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on 14 February after a week-long bout of bronchitis worsened. He was diagnosed with a viral, bacterial, and fungal respiratory tract infection that later developed into pneumonia affecting both lungs. His treatment includes rest, cortisone, antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen as needed.
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Dr Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Gemelli Hospital, said, “Sepsis, with his respiratory problems and his age, would be really difficult to get out of.” He added that Francis is aware of the risks and requested that the medical team communicate his condition honestly.
Vatican dismisses resignation speculation
Meanwhile, Vatican officials sought to dismiss speculation about a possible papal resignation.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, addressed the rumours in an interview with Corriere della Sera, saying that the focus should be on Francis’ recovery. “I don’t think there is any particular movement, and so far I haven’t heard anything like that,” AP quoted Parolin saying.
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This weekend, the Vatican is hosting a special Holy Year event for deacons, a ministry preceding priesthood. Francis was scheduled to preside over Sunday’s Mass but will be replaced by the Holy Year organiser. For the second consecutive weekend, he will also miss his traditional Sunday noon blessing.
“Look, even though he’s not (physically) here, we know he’s here,” said Luis Arnaldo López Quirindongo, a deacon from Ponce, Puerto Rico, attending the Vatican’s Jubilee celebration. “He’s recovering, but he’s in our hearts and is accompanying us, because our prayers and his go together.”
(With inputs from AP)
