The Vatican has released an update on Pope Francis this morning following the pontiff’s ninth night in hospital.
On Saturday (February 22), concerns grew for Pope Francis after officials revealed that the 88-year-old was in a “critical” condition as he continues treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital.
Now, on Sunday morning, the latest update from the Holy See Press Office states that The Pope spent a peaceful ninth night in the hospital.
However, Vatican officials emphasized that while his condition is stable, he is not out of danger.
Pope Faces Respiratory Crisis and Anemia
On Saturday night, the Vatican released a statement outlining the Pope’s ongoing health struggles.
“The condition of the Holy Father continues to be critical. Therefore, as explained yesterday, the Pope is not out of danger,” the statement read.
Earlier in the day, Pope Francis experienced a severe respiratory crisis resembling an asthma attack, requiring high-flow oxygen treatment. Additionally, blood tests revealed thrombocytopenia (low platelet count) and anemia, prompting doctors to administer blood transfusions.
Despite his fatigue, the Pope remained alert and spent the day sitting in an armchair. His prognosis, however, remains guarded.
Doctors Cautiously Optimistic
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During a press conference at Gemelli Hospital on Friday, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of the Pope’s medical team, and Dr. Luigi Carbone, Vice-Director of Vatican healthcare services, addressed journalists.
The doctors estimated that Pope Francis will be hospitalized for at least another week, stressing that while he is not in imminent danger of death, his condition is still serious.
Dr. Alfieri clarified that the Pope is not on a ventilator, though breathing remains a challenge, and his movement is restricted.
However, despite his condition, Pope Francis has maintained his characteristic sense of humor. Alfieri shared a lighthearted moment, recalling how a doctor greeted the Pontiff with “Hello, Holy Father,” to which Francis quipped, “Hello, Holy Son.”
Doctors Monitoring Risk of Sepsis
While the Pope’s health appears stable for now, doctors remain vigilant. One of their biggest concerns is that bacteria from his respiratory tract could enter his bloodstream, leading to sepsis, a potentially life-threatening complication.
Dr. Alfieri expressed confidence that Pope Francis will eventually be discharged and return to Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican, though his chronic respiratory issues will persist.
Pope Francis has long battled respiratory issues, having lost part of one lung to pleurisy in his youth. In 2023, he also suffered from an acute bout of pneumonia.
For now, Vatican officials and medical experts continue to close
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