ROME — Pope Francis remains in critical condition but is conscious and receiving high levels of supplemental oxygen after experiencing a respiratory crisis and undergoing blood transfusions, according to the Vatican’s latest update.
The statement released early Sunday did not specify whether the pope had gotten out of bed or eaten breakfast, as was noted in previous updates. It did say, “The night passed quietly, the pope rested.”
Later on, the Vatican confirmed that he was still conscious and receiving supplemental oxygen, along with undergoing further medical tests, with a more comprehensive report anticipated later in the day.
On Saturday, doctors indicated that the 88-year-old pope, who had undergone lung surgery in his youth, was in a precarious state after suffering an extended asthmatic respiratory crisis while battling pneumonia and a complex lung infection.
To assist him with breathing, he has been provided with high flows of oxygen through a nasal tube, and he received blood transfusions due to low platelet levels, crucial for blood clotting. The Vatican updated that he remained alert and spent time in an armchair, although he experienced more discomfort than in previous days. Medical professionals described his prognosis as “reserved.”
Due to his age and underlying lung disease, Francis’ situation remains uncertain, leading to renewed speculation about what action may be taken if he loses consciousness or becomes incapacitated, including the possibility of resignation.
Prayers for the pope were offered within the Vatican as he was supposed to preside over Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica and ordain deacons as part of the ongoing Holy Year celebrations. In his absence, Archbishop Rino Fisichella led the Mass, emphasizing the pope’s spiritual presence despite his hospitalization and calling for intensified prayers for his recovery.
In a message that Francis had prepared but was unable to deliver, he expressed confidence in his treatment at the Gemelli Hospital, stating, “rest is also part of the therapy.” The message acknowledged the upcoming anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, describing it as a “painful and shameful occasion for the whole of humanity.”
The primary health concern remains the risk of sepsis, a serious blood infection that can arise from pneumonia. As of Friday, no signs of sepsis had been detected, and the pontiff appeared to be responding positively to his medications, as stated by his medical team in their initial detailed report on his health.
However, Saturday’s blood work indicated a low platelet count, known as thrombocytopenia. This condition can arise from various factors, including medication side effects or infections, which disrupt the normal function of platelets that are crucial for blood clotting.
The pope, who suffers from chronic lung disease and is particularly susceptible to bronchitis during the winter months, was admitted to the hospital on February 14 due to a worsening bronchitis condition. Initially diagnosed with a complex respiratory infection involving viral, bacterial, and fungal elements, he subsequently developed pneumonia in both lungs, prompting doctors to advise “absolute rest” along with a regimen of cortisone, antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen as needed.
In light of ongoing speculation regarding a potential resignation, the Vatican officials have sought to dispel such rumors. There are currently no guidelines within canon law outlining procedures if a pope becomes incapacitated. Although Francis has stated that he has a resignation letter prepared for use in the event of a medical incapacity, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, addressed the surrounding conjectures in a recent interview, labeling them as “useless” in light of the more pressing concern of the pope’s health and recovery.
Amid this, the Vatican officially denied reports of a secret meeting between Parolin and the pope’s chief canonist during his hospitalization, asserting that such speculation overshadows the priority of ensuring Pope Francis’s wellbeing and his eventual return to work at the Vatican.
