Pope Francis remains in critical condition but has not experienced any “further respiratory crises,” according to a statement from the Vatican on Sunday. The 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church has been hospitalized for over a week due to a lung infection.
Key Facts
According to the Vatican, Francis is critical but stable, having not suffered additional health emergencies after a “long asthmatic respiratory crisis” was reported the previous day. On Saturday, the Vatican indicated that the pope had a restful night and remained conscious while undergoing various tests. Currently, Francis is utilizing supplemental oxygen, and early tests have suggested “initial, mild” kidney failure; however, medical professionals have assured that the situation is manageable, and he is alert and “well-oriented.” While the pope’s prognosis is described as reserved, the Vatican has refrained from making any specific predictions regarding his recovery due to the complexities of his condition and the need to await the results of drug therapies. Additionally, Francis has been receiving blood transfusions due to anemia and is expected to remain hospitalized throughout the coming week. Although the medical team stated that his condition is not life-threatening, they warned he is still “not out of danger.”
Crucial Quote
In an Angelus statement released by the Vatican on Sunday, Pope Francis addressed the upcoming third anniversary of the war in Ukraine, expressed gratitude for the public’s supportive messages regarding his hospitalization, and asked for prayers. He stated, “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 also expressed sincere thanks to the medical staff for their dedicated care.
What Do We Know About The Pope’s Health?
Pope Francis has been diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs and is contending with bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. His medical team has provided supplemental oxygen as needed and is administering a drug therapy believed to be effective. Strict rest has been mandated, leading to the cancellation of several public engagements. The primary health threat remains the potential for sepsis, a serious condition that may occur as a complication of pneumonia, though so far, no signs of sepsis have been observed.
Key Background
Pope Francis has served as pope for 12 years since his election in 2013. He has been hospitalized multiple times over the past few years, including a stay in July 2021 for a narrowing of his large intestine and another hospitalization in 2023 for bronchitis. He has a history of chronic bronchitis and respiratory issues.
