ROME — Pope Francis is alert but continues to require significant amounts of supplemental oxygen as he battles a serious lung infection and has recently undergone blood transfusions, leaving him in critical condition, according to the Vatican.
“This past night was calm, and the pope was able to rest,” stated Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni in an early update.
Continued medical assessments are being conducted on the 88-year-old pope, who had a lobectomy in his youth, and an in-depth health report is anticipated later in the day.
On Saturday, the pope experienced a severe asthmatic episode necessitating “high flows” of oxygen provided through a nasal tube, along with blood transfusions due to a notably low platelet count, crucial for blood clotting. This information was released by the Vatican.
Doctors described the situation as “reserved,” indicating the fragility of the pope’s health. The combination of his age, pre-existing lung issues, and current condition has heightened concerns regarding the potential results of incapacitation and whether he might choose to step down.
In a show of solidarity, prayers were offered for the pope during Sunday services. He was scheduled to preside over Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica and ordain new deacons as part of the Vatican’s ongoing Holy Year celebrations. However, Archbishop Rino Fisichella led the service on his behalf and included a special prayer for Francis during the Mass before discussing a homily he had prepared.
“Even from his hospital bed, the presence of Pope Francis is felt amongst us,” Fisichella expressed to the gathered deacons.
A message drafted by Francis for his Sunday noon blessing indicated he was “confidently continuing hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital for necessary treatment, emphasizing that rest is also part of recovery.” The note also highlighted the upcoming anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which he described as a “painful and shameful occasion for all humanity.”
The primary concern for the pope lies in the risk of sepsis, a serious blood infection that can result from pneumonia complications. Fortunately, as of Friday, there were no signs of sepsis, and the medical team reported that the pope is responding well to the treatments provided.
Recent blood tests revealed that he was experiencing a low platelet count, a condition known as thrombocytopenia. Platelets are necessary for clotting and healing wounds, and low levels can stem from various factors, including medication side effects and infections, according to health experts.
Pope Francis, known to have chronic lung problems and vulnerability to bronchitis in the colder months, was admitted to Gemelli Hospital on February 14th following a week-long battle with worsening bronchitis.
Initially diagnosed with a complex respiratory infection of viral, bacterial, and fungal origin that led to pneumonia in both lungs, doctors recommended complete rest alongside treatments of cortisone, antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen as necessary.
Recent actions taken by the pope indicate he is aware of his advancing age and associated fragility.
In the past year, he simplified the funeral rites to be used after his passing, underscoring his identity as a bishop while allowing for burial outside the Vatican according to his wishes. Despite these modifications, traditional elements of the rites remain intact, including specific observances following his death.
In December, Francis appointed 21 new cardinals, predominantly under the age of 80, thus eligible to participate in selecting his successor. This brought the total number of voting-age cardinals to 140, surpassing St. John Paul II’s established limit of 120. Nonetheless, several current electors are reaching the age of 80 this year, which will reduce the number of eligible voters.
Earlier this month, during his illness, the pope chose to extend the term of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, 91, as the dean of the College of Cardinals, rather than appointing a new dean. This position is crucial during the transition between papacies, and these decisions reflect Francis’s consideration of the future of church leadership.
Additionally, he extended the tenure of vice-dean, Cardinal Leonardo Sandri, who is 81 years old.
Pope Francis is alert and being given supplemental oxygen after experiencing a respiratory emergency.
