Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized for over a week, is in critical condition after experiencing a “prolonged asthma-like respiratory crisis,” according to a statement from the Vatican on Saturday.
The Vatican reported that the pope’s condition has worsened compared to the previous day.
The 88-year-old pontiff was admitted to Gemelli University Hospital in Rome on February 14 for treatment of bronchitis. He was later diagnosed with a polymicrobial infection and is currently being treated for double pneumonia. The Vatican had initially announced his bronchitis diagnosis on February 6.
Additionally, Pope Francis required blood transfusions due to anemia and received high-flow oxygen therapy during the respiratory crisis, the Vatican stated. Despite his condition, he remains alert and spent much of the day seated in an armchair.
The Vatican described his prognosis as “guarded.”
“The Holy Father’s condition remains critical,” the statement read. “The Pope is not out of danger.”
Prior to his hospitalization, Francis had reportedly struggled to speak and breathe during public appearances and meetings, often relying on aides to read prepared remarks on his behalf.
The pope has faced multiple health challenges and hospital stays in recent years. He experienced flu-like symptoms around this time last year, bronchitis in March 2023, and underwent abdominal surgery in June 2023 to repair a hernia, which required a nine-day hospital stay.
In addition, the Vatican noted that he suffered two recent falls, one in December and another last month.
A nun was seen placing a plant at the statue of the late Pope John Paul II outside Gemelli Hospital, where Pope Francis is currently receiving treatment.
