Pope Francis remains in critical condition following a week-long hospitalization due to a lung infection, according to the Vatican. However, he has not encountered any “further respiratory crises,” as reported on Sunday.
Key Facts
– The Vatican confirmed on Sunday that Pope Francis is in critical condition but has not experienced any additional health crises since his hospitalization for pneumonia.
– Earlier, the Vatican reported that the pope experienced a “long asthmatic respiratory crisis” shortly after being admitted to the hospital.
– A statement from the Vatican noted that Saturday night passed quietly for the pope, who is conscious and undergoing multiple tests.
– Pope Francis continues to receive supplemental oxygen and has been found to have “initial, mild” kidney failure. However, doctors stated the situation is manageable and that the pope is alert and well-oriented.
– The Vatican cautioned that the pope’s “prognosis remains reserved” due to the complexity of his condition and the need to monitor his response to treatments.
– The pope has also received blood transfusions related to a condition linked to anemia, and it is anticipated that he will stay hospitalized for at least another week. Although his medical team has indicated that his condition is not life-threatening, they underscored that he is still “not out of danger.”
Crucial Quote
In an Angelus statement released on Sunday, Pope Francis acknowledged the upcoming third anniversary of the war in Ukraine and expressed gratitude for the public’s support during his hospital stay. He asked for prayers, stating, “I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy!” He expressed sincere thanks to the medical staff for their dedicated service.
What Do We Know About The Pope’s Health?
Pope Francis is suffering from pneumonia in both lungs, in addition to various bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, as per his medical team. He has been placed on supplemental oxygen as needed and is being treated with a drug therapy that seems to be effective. Physicians have prescribed “absolute rest” for him, leading to the cancellation of several public events. The primary health concern remains the potential for sepsis, a serious condition that could stem from complications of pneumonia; however, no signs of sepsis have been observed so far.
Key Background
At 88 years old, Pope Francis has led the Catholic Church for 12 years, having been elected in 2013. He has faced multiple hospitalizations in recent years, including a visit in July 2021 for a narrowing of his large intestine and another in early 2023 for bronchitis. He also suffers from chronic bronchitis and has a history of respiratory issues.
