Pope Francis in critical condition

Though the pope remained critical on Sunday, he “presented no further respiratory crisis” the Vatican said.

Pope Francis remains in critical condition as he receives treatment for double pneumonia and a mild renal insufficiency, the Vatican shared on Sunday.

Before being admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14, the pope had difficulty breathing for several days. He was later diagnosed with “double pneumonia,” or pneumonia in both lungs.

The Vatican previously announced on Saturday that Francis, 88, was in critical condition following a respiratory crisis, stating that he required a blood transfusion and was given oxygen.

But the Catholic officials also said the pope had a “tranquil” night following his treatment.
The Vatican stated that the pope “presented no further respiratory crisis” on Sunday, even though his condition remained critical. He continues to receive oxygen through nasal cannulas. The Vatican claims that some blood tests revealed “initial, mild, renal insufficiency,” but that it was under control. “With those who are caring for him during these days of hospitalization,” the statement continued, “Francis remains alert” and attended Holy Mass this morning.

Francis thanked those who sent him encouraging messages and offered prayers for his well-being while he was receiving medical care early on Sunday afternoon local time. “I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” he said. “I am grateful for your proximity and the reassuring prayers I have received from around the world!”

Francis has had a series of medical issues in recent years, including the flu and various respiratory illnesses. In 2021, he underwent surgery to treat a gastrointestinal disease and was back in the operating room two years later to treat a hernia.
The pope’s latest health struggle has been somewhat of a roller coaster as Francis took a turn a few days after the Vatican said he was in stable condition last week. It even said he was showing “slight improvement” in a Wednesday update.
Giorgia Meloni, the prime minister of Italy, also stated on Wednesday that during her meeting with Francis, the religious leader was awake and alert.

Meloni stated, “As always, we joked.” He has not lost his wit, as the saying goes. Francis was first admitted to the hospital for bronchitis treatment, but the Vatican said Monday he had a polymicrobial infection of the respiratory tract. Officials announced on Tuesday that Francis had pneumonia in both lungs after a CT scan. Dr. Due to his age and prior health issues, Sergio Alfieri told reporters on Friday that the pope is a “fragile” patient and that his condition could change throughout the day. Alfieri stated at the time of the update that Francis was in good spirits and had even gotten out of bed to pray in the hospital chapel. Francis would remain at the hospital for however long it took for him to return to the Vatican in full strength, the doctor said.

Stay tuned for more news.